School Library Journal

Series Review: PreS-Gr 1—Aimed at new readers, these titles use simple vocabulary and attractive photographs to present introductory animal information. Four physical features are identified on the first page, then highlighted throughout the book with text and photos. Polar Bears, for example, shows spot images of claws, nose, eyes, and fur. Subsequent spreads offer basic facts in short sentences: “See the claws? They are sharp. They grab food.” The accompanying full-page close-up image shows the animal’s feet with claws clearly prominent. The question and answer style of the text works well for introductory nonfiction, while the well-chosen photographs offer solid support. Occasional undefined terms such as blubber and hollow might be a stretch for the target audience of the youngest readers. VERDICT The handful of basic facts won’t satisfy more curious learners, but these are good choices for new readers with an interest in nature.