South American Monkeys

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6By concentrating on selected species, these series entries are able to provide more than introductory information about the animals and what could cause their extinction. Sharks features three of the largestthe great white, the whale, and the basking. The differences in their anatomy, e.g., types of teeth, are clearly and succinctly described. Full-color photographs on each page depict the sharks looming blue in their underwater world or leaping into the crisp air. The second title introduces the endangered monkeys of South America and explains how they differ from the primates of the Old World. Particular attention is paid to those threatened by the destruction of the rain forest and the Atlantic coastal forest. Full-color photos show these primates leaping from tree to tree or sipping water from flowers in their jungle habitat. Whales describes why so many species have been hunted to the point of extinction and discusses efforts that are being made to prevent this loss. The differences between the baleen and toothed whales are described, as are their particular characteristics that made them easy prey during the heyday of whaling. Each book includes range maps, a one-page glossary with pronunciation guides, and a list of environmental agencies.Frances E. Millhouser, Chantilly Regional Library, VA