Surviving in the Rain Forest

Children's Literature

Moths appearing to look like leaves. Katydids that perfectly mimic rotting vegetation. Walking sticks that easily pass for dead twigs. These are but a few of the many forms of protective camouflage that are utilized by living creatures in the Amazon rain forest. Living in a world of predators and prey, many animals and plants of the Amazon Basin must use all possible forms of defense to survive. Thus, over millions of years, patterns of color, shape and configuration have emerged that allow certain species to exist. It is these unusual approaches to existence that James L. Castner touches on in this lavishly illustrated book. Castner takes his readers into the rain forests and unveils the multitudinous diversity of life forms. The interrelationships between prey animals hoping to live through another day and their predators is fascinating as described by the author. Additionally, the informative text is linked to many striking color photos of the species described. Readers will come away from this book with a clearer understanding of the amazing biodiversity of the Amazon region. Castner's ability to describe complex ecological relationships in an understandable fashion helps make this a great book for those readers with an interest in nature studies. Part of the "Deep in the Amazon" series. 2002, Benchmark Books, $24.21. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck AGES: 10 11 12 13 14

School Library Journal

Gr 6 Up-Although information in these three volumes is obviously related, Castner does a good job of avoiding duplication of most material. Researchers introduces six scientists exploring various aspects of plant and animal life in the Amazon Basin. It includes an entomologist, enthnobotanist, mammalogist, and ornithologists. Without minimizing the difficulty or hardships involved in their studies, the author conveys their enthusiasm for their work as well. The other two books explore the interrelationships among plants and animals of the same tropical region and how various species have adapted to their habitats in order to survive. Partners provides illustrations of commensalism, mutualism, and parasitism by discussing the fascinating relationships among species. Surviving offers examples of how evolutionary changes allow animals to escape predators through means such as camouflage, mimicry, and warning colors. Not only is there a thorough glossary, but there is also a separate guide to the species mentioned in the text. In all three books, well-chosen photographs depict many of these plants and animals. Some of the Web sites noted tend toward the commercial, but contact information for organizations will be helpful. Castner assumes readers have a basic knowledge of rainforest ecology, and those who do will enjoy these books. The interesting accounts of plant and animal life will keep most readers involved beyond a mere search for facts to add to reports.-Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.