Why Do Zebras Have Stripes?

October 1, 2013
Grades 2-4 In this entry in the 20 Questions series, the Bergers focus on mammals as they pose and answer common queries, starting with the titular one. (Answer: mostly for camouflage.) They move on to other questions that target kids' interests, such as Do bears hibernate? and Why do rabbits wiggle their noses? The answers are reasonably full, even frank explanations of facts and concepts. For instance, male giraffes use their long necks not only to reach for food and spot predators but also to duel with other males for mates. Each Q and A section is paired with a bright photo of the featured mammal, and although there is no bibliography, an index, a glossary, and an additional 20 facts about the animals adequately round out this inviting browsing offering.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)