Nature Unfolds the Tropical Rainforest

Children's Literature

Students studying the biomes of the world are always fascinated by the tropical rainforest. This part of the world is home to many exotic animals and plants. The trees' highest branches form the upper canopy of the rainforest. These branches are so thick they form a roof over the forest and block out much of the sunlight. The forest floor is covered with rotting fruit, branches, and leaves that fall from the trees above. Spiders, lizards and small mammals roam this surface looking for food, and often become food for snakes and larger mammals. Each double-page layout is filled with pictures of the animals and plants that inhabit this environment. Each picture is explained, and bold-faced words are included in a glossary. In addition, there are two fold out sections that can be used for class discussion. One is of the swamplands and one is of the rainforest. An index is included. Although this is an instructional book, students will also enjoy just looking at all the illustrations. I highly recommend this for upper elementary and middle school collections. This is one in the "Nature Unfolds" series. 2001, Crabtree Books, $22.60 and $9.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Joyce Rice