11/01/2019
Gr 2–6—Deep and thorough information makes this series a good choice for readers ready to move beyond the elementary level into more serious animal science. After opening pages that focus on history and taxonomy, each title explores multiple aspects of many individual species. The fairly sophisticated writing style is clear and engaging, providing detailed explanations of physical characteristics and behaviors. Statistics, scientific research, and current data about survival threats are covered within the animal descriptions. Useful photographs provide excellent support for specific topics as the alligator's tooth patterns or the perching posture of a marabou stork. Images vary from quarter-page spots to full spreads; all include extended captions. Not all of the species in Alligators & Crocodiles are truly "creatures of the ocean," but including the broader crocodilian order makes sense. VERDICT High-quality resources for middle school and high school collections.
