In Winter, Where Do They Go?

Focusing on animal behaviors in winter, each title examines hibernation or migration from fall to spring. Three to four large-type sentences per spread, supplemented by fact boxes, should be easy for young readers to navigate. The basic vocabulary limits the excitement level of the text, so the books are most engaging when the content is especially amazing, such as when the author emphasizes the wood frog’s frozen hibernation. Most highlighted features relate directly to the animal’s winter habits, so readers learn about the little brown bat’s hooked claws but not about more general subjects, such as echolocation. Many spreads feature a large photograph, with occasional captioned insets. Though the majority of the images are of decent quality, the impact is sometimes limited. Range maps and a closing list of facts round out these solid and simple introductions.The life science information is supported by the National Science Education Standards for grades K-4. Topics include the unique characteristics of spiders, spiders and their environments, predator/prey relationships, life cycles, and behavior of spiders. Mathematics is incorporated in a discussion on the range of sizes of the tarantula. Both standard and metric units are used. Several different authors have contributed to this series; students may learn more about each of them by reading the brief biographical information at the end of the books. Each volume includes a table of contents, a glossary with photos, an index, and additional resources for teachers and students in the form of books and websites.Most children (and adults) will find that the photos and fascinating facts provide a wealth of knowledge close at hand. I recommend these for motivating young students, to have on hand in research centers, for reading aloud by teachers or students, and to encourage vocabulary and conceptual development.