The lives and qualities of some especially interesting animals are introduced with engaging text and strong visual support. Each book provides a brief but clear overview of the creature's physical features, diet, habitat, and life cycle, with extra attention paid to distinct characteristics such as the narwhal's tusk and the eyes of the tarsier. Well-chosen photographs are complemented by useful Âvisual resources such as range maps, comparison charts, and food chain diagrams. Smaller images showing environments without the animals are less useful. An appealing "by the numbers" spread offers a handful of fun facts and statistics. Closing pages look at threats to the animals' survival along with a bit about current efforts to protect them. Text and visuals are just right for middle elementary-age students who enjoy learning about especially unusual animals. VERDICT Excellent profiles for browsers and report writers.
