Animals with Super Powers

With cool title phrases like “glow-in-the-dark” and “see-through,” even reluctant readers will surely be drawn to these informational books on animals. Each title covers eight animals with a different super power, appealing to children who are fascinated by superheroes.

This series focuses on creatures with unexpected “super powers.” Some of the powers, such as using electricity to find prey, seem more “super” than others (e.g., having a transparent appearance). All of the traits—and how animals use them to their advantage—are explained using accessible text. Vibrant photographs are included.

[Starred review]. Each book in the Animals with Super Powers series has a colorful title and a lifelike photograph on the front cover. On the back cover, a challenging question is presented and young readers are invited to look inside to find answers about the amazing creatures of the title. The curiosity and excitement of young readers will soar as they explore the books in the series. Following the title page and table of contents, the stage is set for an adventure that is informative, intriguing, and sometimes unbelievable.

[Starred review]. Each book in the Animals with Super Powers series has a colorful title and a lifelike photograph on the front cover. On the back cover, a challenging question is presented and young readers are invited to look inside to find answers about the amazing creatures of the title. The curiosity and excitement of young readers will soar as they explore the books in the series. Following the title page and table of contents, the stage is set for an adventure that is informative, intriguing, and sometimes unbelievable.

Large color photos of animals in natural settings and clear, cogent presentations of information combine to boost this series well above the average for both assignments and casual browsing. Along with covering such uncommon topics as bioluminescence and transparency, the volumes offer introductions to creatures beyond the usual suspects. Glow-in-the-Dark Animals features not only fireflies, glowworms, and anglerfish, but also South American railroad worms and cucujo beetles, and Electric Animals includes the platypus and great white sharks, which both have electroreceptors. . . . these titles will strengthen animal collections.

This series abounds with colorful photographs of uncommon animals in exotic locations. The books in the series focus on topics ranging from bioluminescence to camouflage, transparency, and electricity. Vibrant descriptions and interesting facts add to the animals’ appeal. The glossary and pronunciation keys make the books accessible to primary as well as intermediate readers. The links included in the “Read More” sections point to current research and further information about the themes and concepts each book encompasses.