Emerald Boas: Rain Forest Undercover

Children's Literature - Jeanne K. Pettenati J.D.

Talk about amazing creatures! Emerald boas, found in South America, almost never come down to the ground. Baby boas are born in trees and, unlike their green mothers, are either dark red or orange. Eventually, their color changes to bright green, making it easier for them to camouflage themselves in their tree homes. Daytime finds these boas coiled around a branch. At night they lower their heads from the branch until they hang straight down, waiting for prey. An arresting close-up of a boa's mouth and razor sharp teeth show why this nighttime hunter makes a fearsome predator. Simple text and bright, bold photos will draw young children into the rainforest where these creatures live. The stunning, close-up photos are memorable. A picture/text glossary, index and places to go for more information are featured at the back of this title, which is one in the publisher's "Disappearing Acts" series. A map in the text highlights where in South America emerald boas live. In addition, several vocabulary words, such as coiled and prey, show up as bold in the text. Individual titles, as well as the complete series, make an excellent choice for elementary school classrooms and home libraries. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati, J.D.