Chickens

April 1, 2015

K-Gr 2-These slight books reach big, attempting to cover tons of material. They address the usual information: names for the different genders, appearance, diet, behaviors, and purpose for raising them, as well as three different species of each animal. With no more than three short sentences per spread, the content is decidedly abrupt. Claims like "[Chickens] make great pets" are never verified or supported, and "Pigs are friendly. Pet one..." may not be sound advice. The three-to-four word picture glossary choices seem arbitrary, neglecting to highlight some important terms. From the animals peering out from the covers to the full-page images inside, the photos are well chosen. The pumped-up colors and contrast-at times veering on the surreal-make them really pop. VERDICT With so many farm animal series already available-"Animals on the Farm" (Bullfrog) and "Pebble Plus Farm Animals" (Capstone)-these aren't necessary purchases.

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