Outside and Inside Snakes

Children's Literature - Victoria Crenson

This new addition to the "Inside Outside" series is full of dramatic color photos of snakes in action and up-close views of snake anatomy. The sections on locomotion and snake reproduction are especially well presented and sure to delight young herpetologists. Did you know a snake egg is "stretchy, so it can expand as the embryo grows?" Large type and lively text will engage even reluctant readers. A pronunciation guide and glossary are also included.

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-A remarkably perceptive introduction to the ever-fascinating slitherer. The text succinctly describes the physical characteristics common to all species, anatomy, hunting and feeding techniques, use of venom, skin shedding, locomotion, camouflage, senses, and birth of young. Most useful are the clear explanations of how the snake's form and structure affect its daily activities. Simple comparisons between human and snake anatomical features help elucidate the discussion. This title offers more detail on bodily functions than is currently available in other books. For instance, it describes how a snake breathes, digests food, and eliminates wastes. One or two sharp, full-color photographs serve as extensions of the text on almost every page. They include shots of some of the internal organs of a dissected snake and some brilliantly composed pictures of various snakes in the act of swallowing small animals they give every appearance of enjoying their food. Eighteen species are depicted. There are some minor omissions. While the text describes a snake's body temperature and its need to soak up heat from the ground or air, it does not employ the term ``ectothermic,'' or even ``cold-blooded.'' Although hibernation is discussed, the term itself is not mentioned. Reproduction is outlined, but the text does not explain how snakes actually mate. Joanna Cole's A Snake's Body Morrow, 1981 covers many of the same topics a diagram shows all the major internal organs; however, the information is not as detailed as the Markle title and is illustrated with black-and-white photos. With its strong emphasis on anatomy and outstanding photography, Outside and Inside Snakes is a fine offering.-Karey Wehner, San Francisco Public Library