Murray, Julie. Penguin Chicks. ABDO Kids Publishing, 2018. 9781532100741. 24 p. $19.00. K-2.
With attractive photographs and simple text, Murray has written an introduction to the life cycle of the penguin from egg to chick for young readers. The reader learns about the behavior and physical description of the penguin, as well as some simple terminology. The book is designed in classic nonfiction style and includes an index and table of contents. A few words are highlighted in the text, like hatch, thick, webbed and fine and these are defined in the picture glossary. However, words like krill are not explained. There are one or two sentences on a page in a large font size, while the opposite page contains a full page photograph. Children can access activities and videos about penguins on abdokids.com by using the special code, which is provided. This book is part of the ABDO Kids: Baby Animals series, but the other books in the series were not available for review. THOUGHTS: This book is perfect for teachers to use in the ever popular penguin unit. It will also appeal to children who will enjoy reading about this unique animal independently. Young readers will be drawn to the charming photographs. This text is a winner and should be added to all elementary collections.
598.47; Birds Denise Medwick, West Allegheny SD
Spilsbury, Louise and Richard. Engineered by Nature. Bellweather Media, 2017. 32 p. $25.95 each. Gr. 3-6.
Animal Adaptations. 978-1-62617-585-3.
Animal Homes and Hangouts. 978-1-62617-586-0.
Animal Traps and Lairs. 978-1-62617-587-7.
Born Survivors. 978-1-62617-588-4.
Deadly Predators. 978-1-62617-589-1.
Killer Plants. 978-1-60686-467-8.
This series focuses on the marvels of nature and the ways in which nature engineers animals and plants for survival. Each title focuses on a different mode of survival, such as physical adaptations or skillfully built animal homes. Every book provides a basic introduction along with 11 mostly well-done examples, such as the large ears of a fennec fox that help keep it cool in the hot desert climate or the intricately dug colonies of prairie dogs which keep them safe from predators. Examples include one or two colorful photographs along with straightforward text. Page layout is clean and often includes Fast Facts or Did You Know? highlights. Each book includes a Table of Contents, Index, Glossary, and To Learn More section. THOUGHTS: An attractive and interesting series for students of many ages.
500s Lindsey Long, Lower Dauphin School District