Animal Atlas

Grade 4 Up— This spectacular guide to animal life throughout the world offers interesting, often unusual, information together with stunning illustrations in an appealing format. Divided by continent and habitat, the book presents animals of all types, many rarely discussed elsewhere, and shows their characteristics, homes, and habits. Although environmental problems are often mentioned and there is a section called ``Animals in Danger,'' ecology is not the main focus here. Rather, it is a beautiful presentation of the wonderous jewels that inhabit our Earth. Introducing children to the wealth of animal life around them presents an excellent case for environmental awareness. Don't relegate this to the reference shelf, as it makes fascinating recreational reading for nature lovers. —Eva Elisabeth Von Ancken, Trinity Pawling School, NY
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

A striking pictorial atlas of world wildlife. From polar ice to coral reef and on every continent, major habitats are described with accompanying illustrations of dozens of animals, both common and rare: birds, mammals, insects, reptiles, amphibians. For North America, for example, there are double spreads depicting the forest, lakes and prairies, the Rockies, western deserts, and the Everglades. Lilly's appealing color illustrations show animals in many activities: eating, swimming, running, resting. Regional topological maps with line drawings of the animals indicate range. Common and scientific names, sizes, and a brief paragraph about each animal add interesting or unusual facts. Careful layout and use of white space give unity to each spread while providing opportunities to examine the animals individually. An introduction shows how to use the atlas; there's a section on endangered animals. An excellent purchase, worth every penny. Index. (Nonfiction. 7-12) — Copyright ©1992, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.