Ostriches

Children's Literature

Covering the physical characteristics, habits and life cycle of the ostrich, this book uses a child-friendly format to convey information. Each short chapter begins with a picture caption that doubles as a helpful predicator of content. "Where do most ostriches live?" is followed by information about adaptive features of birds that can't fly, including that they live in trees. Many pictures show the ostrich against flat, featureless, field-type landscapes but others depict fascinating detail such as feathers attached to skin, food lumpily traversing an ostrich's long neck, an ankle joint and an ear, and a curious ostrich watching a woman unload hay from the back of a truck. The relatively new idea of ostriches as a source of meat is mentioned. End matter includes a glossary, an index, suggestions to adults for sharing the book, and the front matter includes a map and words to watch for. This is a well-produced book with helpful picture captions and easy-to-find information in an appealing package just right for middle elementary readers. Part of the "Early Bird Nature Books" series. 2001, Lerner, $22.60. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Susan Hepler