More Animals All Around

Known for his close-up, full-color photographs of animals in the wild, Bishop turns his lens to a variety of lizards from around the globe. The informative, striking book demonstrates that “lizards lead lives that are full of surprises.”

Handsome, realistic illustrations accompanied by straightforward information about North American birds encourage children to observe birds closely. Additional information about characteristics and bird identification concludes this attractive and informative book.

An eclectic collection of factoids about animals is presented in an eye-catching, brightly colored format that uses graphic art or “infographics.” The result is a fetching book sure to engage sophisticated readers as they dip in and out.

Richly hued, lush, realistic illustrations answer the question of what a child might see during the day: a sun-dappled bird, butterfly, or beaver perhaps. At night, there could be a bat or a firefly in moonlight, and a teddy bear as she snuggles into bed.

Splendid photographs are used along with a crisp, easier to read narrative to introduce dolphins, water-dwelling mammals. A glossary, index and access to additional online material complete this appealing and edifying title.

Most elephant seals live in the ocean but one prefers the Avon River in Christchurch, New Zealand. Though the townspeople try to relocate Elizabeth, the huge seal finds her way back three times to the delight of many, especially a boy named Michael. Based on a true story, this well-told fictionalized account is expressively illustrated.

Die-cuts let readers ‘spy’ a portion of an animal while text provides clues as to what it might be. With the turn of the page the entire bird is portrayed. Basic characteristics and attractive illustrations provide an informative glimpse of a variety of fowl while playing a variant of a familiar game.

Dog lovers — and those who aren’t — are sure to be touched by twelve short stories about shelter dogs that find just the right home. Written by various authors, each story is different but each will resonate with sophisticated readers (or listeners) in this varied short story collection.

“Our world is made of land and water.” The land is called continents; the water oceans. Select animals that live on each continent are presented on sturdy, textured pages that will hold up to multiple readings and handling by young children while providing a visually appealing introduction to maps and animals.

Animals and people both have hair. Photographs of animals and droll illustrations of kids with that hair on opposing pages provide a light, humorous, and surprisingly informative look at different animals — and of course, hair.

Who can jump? Lift the flap to see small animals in action ending with “YOU can jump!” Bold, uncluttered illustrations and repeated language are sure to absorb young children. The same format is used in the equally engaging Who Can Swim? (opens in a new window)

A clearly illustrated pair of feet is shown with the title question. On the next page, the entire animal is seen with a basic characteristic of the foot, sure to intrigue and inform.