Book Finder

Underwater photographers, Hayes and Doubilet, provide basic information about their work as photographers as well as about sharks, their habitats, and the challenges faced by sharks in lucid text and stunning photographs, the latest in this captivating series.

Noted naturalist, Arnosky, trekked through Florida’s Everglades to count crocodiles, the once endangered reptiles. Through informal narration and arresting, large paintings, these toothy creatures come alive. A DVD with highlights of the author’s trek is included.

Gerald the elephant can throw a ball a long distance but to his surprise, Piggie delights in just throwing the ball no distance at all. Willem’s signature humor and cartoon style using dialogue balloons reminds readers that Piggie and Gerald have a great deal to share.

Though not for the youngest hands, stunning colors, and amazing pop-ups are used to introduce sea life — kelp, fish, coral, and other creatures — from unique perspectives. This attractive book is sure to engage readers of all ages.

Farmer Brown needs help as he prepares for the annual Corn Maze Festival. Of course, all of the animals rise to the occasion — though Duck prepares a small surprise revealed on a final — and very funny — fold out.

Wilbur is a different kind of mole rat. Instead of always being naked, he dons sporty clothing much to the chagrin of others. That is until his Grand-pah also asks “Why not?” Willems’ understated humor in both text and illustration will delight readers of all ages.

A variety of animals in their natural habitat are presented here in handsome full-color photographs accompanied by a range of short poems that they inspired. Both words and pictures present reflections, literal and figurative, and will likely generate discussion.

Little Chick is impatient and oh-so-child-like in each of her three short adventures. Wise Old-Auntie provides gentle guidance to Little Chick. Large pages support expressive, open, and winning watercolors to complement the satisfying story in three chapters.

A backyard is the ideal place to count animals and their young. Rich language and attractive illustrations encourage readers to count from one doe with her fawn to ten grasshopper nymphs.

Ben is trying to train Aggie, a small brown and white dog, but she doesn’t listen very well at all. But “bad dog” turns to “good dog” when Aggie finally understands what her human friend expects of her in this warmly illustrated and told tale.

As Foo, a frog, grows larger, so does his conviction that he is the biggest animal in the world. Of course, when Foo deflates, his friends assure him he’s still a fine size for a frog. Onomatopoeia and jaunty illustrations distinguish this retelling.

Fancy Nancy is back, this time exploring in her own backyard. Photographs combine with signature illustration to introduce the wonders of real butterflies, birds, leaves, and more — that young explorers anywhere will find and appreciate.

When their mother tells them their day of play is about to end, two ducklings run away — “pit-a-pat” — until it starts to rain. Gentle illustrations depict the appealing toy duck family.

A young raccoon seeks attention from her ever-patient mother. She wants to be held then put down throughout their day together, until the youngster whispers “good night.” Soft illustrations in warm hues show their cozy world and affectionate relationship.

This appealing, sturdy book presents photographs of emperor penguin chicks (and adults) going about their daily business of fishing, cuddling, and generally taking care of one another. It is sure to create warm feelings regardless of the snowy landscape.

Oscar, a young cat, learns from his friend Bat that “our ears help us know what’s around us, even when our eyes can’t.” Thus begins a fascinating sound adventure filled with information in an attractive format.

There are all kinds of cats — cool, copy, striped, furry, bald, and more. They’re shown in all their glory in full color photographs on sturdy, interactive pages that can be touched, unfolded, etc. Playful language and silly humor create a broadly appealing book.

Theater mice perform in a space just out of human sight in a venerable old New York theater. Alas! The leading rodent taken to Brooklyn before she performs in the final play before the theater is destroyed. Humor abounds in this satisfying tale.

The murder of a young knight, a white wolfhound, and a faithful page in medieval France all come together to create a fast-paced, gripping mystery.

While visiting her father and stepmother in a lakeside cabin, Maggie notices a beautiful blue heron in the sky. Seeing this bird each morning helps Maggie through the tough visit, and she summons the strength to help the heron when it seems to be in danger.

From great white sharks to tigers, animals use their teeth for various reasons — much of which is quite amazing. An informal text combines with full-color illustrations to introduce the function and form of teeth. A glossary and additional resources are included.

This worthy addition to the “scientists in the field series” is filled with information presented visually and textually about the impact of invasive plant and animal species. Their impact can be devastating and irrevocable though readers are encouraged to take action.

What has a bill like a duck and the body of a beaver? Probably a platypus! These unusual creatures are suffering from a loss of habitat. Meet this marvelous egg-laying mammalsl in brief but readable text and realistic images.

The biomes of North and South America are introduced clearly and briefly, describing how flora and fauna have adapted to the particular climate. Lush illustrations evoke place and extend information.