Smart Animals

[Starred review]. The Smart Animals series takes young readers on a journey that is informative and heartwarming as they explore experiments and feats of bravery and compassion among six groups of animals. In 32 pages, the authors give numerous examples depicting how animals are smart and how they survive in their natural habitat. Further, the presentation of each topic is concise and action oriented. Pictures portraying interactions between humans and animals and between animals and animals are displayed in a variety of colors, shapes, and patterns. Boldface type is used to indicate important words, and colorful maps show where the animals live. This format gives readers the opportunity to broaden their horizons and enliven their conversations about animal behavior.The series provides many opportunities for facilitators to develop cooperative learning and interdisciplinary teaching strategies. Process and communication skills can also be enhanced. Relevant data and comparisons of features of animals are found in sections titled “Just the Facts” and “More Smart… [the name of the animals of the title].” A glossary, a bibliography, a section titled “Learn More Online,” and an index and a few facts about the author are also included. Young readers will be fascinated by this series as they discover how smart animals are.