Spectacular Animal Towns

Animals in their habitats—this is a topic interesting to young readers and one with a strong curricular connection. This series includes a variety of animals including insects, mammals, and ocean life, and each title describes the unique homes of the featured animal. Stunning photos depict the habitat and there are many interesting shots of the animals. Factoids are included throughout which provide additional information about the habitat and other animals and plants that live there. The Coral Reef differs from the other titles because of the variety of animal life in the reef itself; this variety is described and detailed well. Readers can learn more about the topic from the book, and then explore websites and other books. Bibliography. Glossary. Index. Recommended.

These volumes provide informative looks at the title animals. While focusing on the creatures’ habitats and homes, the texts also provide decent overviews of what makes each animal unique and interesting. The information is selective, but there are enough facts to fulfill basic report requirements. Photographs and maps will hold readers’ interest.

The vibrant photography is captivating and will entice the most reluctant reader to turn the page. This is a good reference for lessons on behavior and adaptations.

This delightful series highlights the habitats of a variety of creatures, from tiny one-celled corals to bats, beavers, and prairie dogs. Through excellent photographs, high-interest texts, sidebars, maps, and other material, children learn about both the animals and their habitats. The species are shown not only within their own kind, but also in relation to those that share the habitat. For example, coral reefs are discussed in terms of the individual corals that make up the organism, and in relation to other animals that inhabit it and environmental situations that benefit or threaten it. Each book also provides brief profiles of animals with similar habitats. The publisher’s Web site provides links to other Web sites and activities about each animal profiled. These books are much better than average “report” titles.