Exotic Pets : From Alligators to Zebra Fish

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5In spite of the title, this is not an alphabetical gallery; instead, it is a compilation of facts and anecdotes about the wide variety of animals that people keep as pets. The author cautions readers that not every effort to tame a wild creature is successful and not every animal makes a good pet. He distinguishes between those that are truly tame and those that are only captives and discusses the reasons people choose to have animal companions. Readers are introduced to snakes, hedgehogs, alligators, moose, mountain lions, tarantulas, praying mantises, and monkeys. Captions in bold print, color accents, clear photos, and a good use of white space make for an appealing package. Illustrations in the borders introduce interesting tidbits every few pages. Highlighted words appear in the glossary. Readers looking for information on the zebra fish mentioned in the subtitle will be disappointed but others will find this brief overview informative and attractive.Carol Kolb Phillips, The Library, East Brunswick, NJ Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.