What Is a Bear?

Nikki Tate-Stratton writes novels for preteens; her latest books are
Jo’s Triumph; Jessa Be Nimble, Rebel Be Quick; Raven’s Revenge; and
Tarragon Island.

These books in The Science of Living Things series are attractively
designed full-color productions with high-quality photographs on each
page. Color illustrations also supplement the text, which is generally
clear and easy to understand (though occasionally repetitive from one
section to another). The mix of text, photographs, and illustrations is
inviting and well laid out. Each book concludes with a glossary of terms
and an index.

In How Do Animals Find Food?, the discussion begins with food, food
chains, and different diets for different creatures. Topics include
finding food, hunters and scavengers, omnivorous insects, traps and
poisons. Reptiles, insects, amphibians, mammals, birds, and humans each
have a short section describing specific adaptations and food
preferences. What Is a Horse? provides information about the evolution
and eventual domestication of the horse, describes herd life, and
includes brief profiles of asses, donkeys, zebras, and ponies.

In What Are Camouflage and Mimicry?, the authors provide a brief
description of why animals use camouflage and mimicry. Topics in this
volume include types of camouflage, reasons for camouflage adaptations,
and many examples of the specific ways a variety of creatures blend in
with their surroundings. What Is a Bear? is a solid introduction to the
animal. Beginning with the most general questions and answers (What is a
bear? Warm-blooded mammals living in many areas of the world), the books
go on to describe various species of bears, and explain their physical
adaptations, behavior, gestation, and care of young.

This fine set of books contains a wide range of information from the
most basic to quite obscure. Recommended.