Boa Constrictors

Children's Literature

Part of the "Weird Pets" series, this text considers boa constrictors as household friends. It discusses size, color, behavior, and care of a boa for a potential owner. Because it is written for the early reader, discussion points are general and information broad. However, one does learn that boas are about 11 feet long when fully grown, respond gently to most handling, consider rats their favorite meal, and have live babies at birth rather than lay eggs. This is a good text for the "want-to-be" snake owner or the animal enthusiast. It is also appropriate for a first time nonfiction report or beginning research project. The photographs are enticing (one can see a boa devouring a rat) and the glossary, index, and website suggestions encouraging for further study. 2002, Rourke Publishing,
— Andrea Sears Andrews