Simon & Schuster N.Y.

Simon & Schuster N.Y.

English

This volume in the Animals That Make Me Say. . .series examines the many painful-looking ways animals, birds, insects, and amphibians survive in the wild. Color photographs, including those provided by the National Wildlife Federation, capture more than 150 animals in the act of foraging, defending against predators, and thriving in harsh climates. Evocative text bubbles link the facts to the photos, creating a puzzle-like feel as readers become acquainted with a variety of teeth, feathers, slime, venom, and spines. (Examples: woodpeckers have shock absorbers in their heads to protect their brains.) Scavengers hunt challenges designed to encourage budding biologists to observe animals in their own surroundings, suggestions for further reading, and a glossary round out this bright, engaging resource.-BooklistFor Animals That Make Me Say OUCH! and Animals That Make Me Say WOW! These two animal-focused nature books will make kids sit up and take notice. The attractive photos from the National Wildlife Federation show bald eagles performing acrobatics in mid-air; zebras delivering a swift kick, leaving lion predators in their dust; shape-shifting spiders; and a South American male frigate bird with a bright red "bubble chin." The upbeat, accessible text is factual and entertaining, including funny headers and the occasional joke ("What's worse than a jaw of sharp, curved teeth? Two jaws, that's what!"). Each installment contains practicable "Scavenger Hunt" ideas to cultivate scientific observation skills. While younger students will love the vivid photos, older ones will appreciate the informative material. Solid wildlife overviews.-School Library Journal