Habitats

Pat Galloway is the resource librarian for the Toronto & District Parent
Co-operative Preschool Corporation.

Even the most urban of children will often have seen an ant, earthworm,
or pillbug. Most will have no inkling of the tidy and ordered existence
of these tiny creatures in their own environments. Habitats is a
wonderful project-oriented look at these environments and other
small-animal and plant habitats that are in our yards, in our
neighborhood parks, and right under our feet. Starting with a basic
aquarium, the young biologist can easily create any of the animal homes
included in this superb book.

In each clear, well-written chapter, Pamela Hickman gives a
comprehensive explanation of a habitat that can be built and nurtured at
home. All 10 chapters are meticulously supplemented with vivid color
illustrations of the featured species and the preparation and
maintenance of the habitat. While the instructive text is particularly
appropriate for 8- to 12-year-olds, even the youngest child can be
involved in the miniature delights provided by these uncomplicated
projects.

The book (approved by the Federation of Ontario Naturalists) is also a
useful introduction to the relationship between the environments of
these tiny animals and our own. Principles of conservation and respect
for all forms of life are strongly emphasized in this instructive book.
Highly recommended.