Insects and Spiders

Ray Doiron is an assistant professor of education specializing in
children’s literature at the University of Prince Edward Island.

This attractive series of large-format, full-color picture books
introduces intermediate learners to a smorgasbord of fascinating
creatures.

Armored Animals acquaints the young reader with built-in defence
mechanisms in seven land mammals, turtles, and alligators. The diet and
basic living habits of each species are also described. Brief captions
with each illustration highlight details of the animal body, while
side-bars add interest. Amazing Sea Creatures uses essentially the same
format to introduce whales and other water mammals, salmon, octopuses,
crabs, and corals. The text explains how the animal can breathe, feed,
and move through the water. Baby Animals presents species from each of
the three reproductive groups—marsupials, live bearers, and egg
layers. Each chapter includes a brief description of the birth and
rearing of the young. Rounding out the series is Dangerous Animals,
which describes the hunting and eating habits of eight land mammals,
snakes, eagles, orcas, and sharks.

Each volume in this attractively packaged series includes an index and
glossary. The language is simple and, for the most part, nontechnical.
Highly recommended for intermediates engaged in free reading and
research projects, and for teachers and parents who like to read picture
books to their primary learners.