Frogs and Toads

Kelly L. Green is the co-editor of the Children’s Literature edition
of the Canadian Book Review Annual.

These startlingly beautiful books will encourage any child to look more
closely at the natural world, which can manifest its wonders in locales
as pedestrian as the backyard or the neighborhood park.

The format of all three books is the same—information-packed,
easy-to-read text surrounds beautifully detailed, colorful photographs
and illustrations. The books are filled with the kind of true-life
weirdness that fascinates children (e.g., insects breathe through holes
in their bodies; when a caterpillar is scared it pokes its smelly horns
at its enemy; and frogs and toads were once the only animals that could
make sounds). Kalman and Everts explain complex concepts, such as
metamorphosis, hibernation, compound eyes, and camouflage, in simple,
clear language.

Difficult words are highlighted in boldfaced type, and are either
defined or explained contextually. Each book closes with a short
glossary, an index, and an information page about the book’s
photographs. Highly recommended.