Hippos

School Library Journal

Gr 3–5—These titles have two-page chapters of accessible, large-type text and bright color photos and illustrations. Hippos answers such questions as, "Were There Ancient Hippos?" and "Do Hippos Have Enemies?" The second title discusses how "biters find their victims" and whether microscopic creatures are good for us. Pinnipeds describes how walruses and seals swim, and their predators. Swarms asserts that the Madagascar hissing cockroach is a "great pet." The series distinguishes itself with "X-Ray Vision." When readers hold the page with this prompt up to the light, an image emerges. The X-rays mostly show the skeletal structures of the animals. Text boxes throughout add to the visual appeal. Readers could easily flip through these titles and glean important facts, including how human beings affect the animals and their habitats. Pictures of the creatures feeding on or being fed to another animal are included. The subject is handled matter-of-factly. In Hippos, Clarke says about a baby hippo, "But its death is not a waste, because its body provides food for other creatures." These titles are excellent resources for school assignments and browsing.—Lori A. Guenthner, Baltimore County Public Library, Randallstown, MD