The Tundra

Children's Literature - Tim Whitney

Part of the "Biomes of the World" series, this book begins by showing the tundra through the seasons of the year and continues with an explanation of how animals and plants adapt to life in this unique yet harsh environment. It ends with a discussion of the threat that man presents to this biome, accompanied by a glossary, index, and list for further reading. The impressive color photographs of tundra wildlife, along with separate pages that discuss issues pertaining to the tundra, make this a very attractive and informative book for research and leisure reading.

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-Each title defines biome as a geographical area distinguished by certain environmental conditions, including the plants and animals that have adapted to these conditions. Kaplan covers the arctic and alpine tundras; Ricciuti discusses both rocky tide pools and sandy beaches as well as offshore waters. The texts are clearly written and often paint a picture in words, e.g., in Ocean the barnacle is described as a shrimp "...lying on its head in a box, and kicking food into its mouth with its feet." Environmental issues are clearly stated with the worldwide consequences of neglect and abuse. Full-color photographs and diagrams amplify definitions of such features as permafrost in Tundra and the tides in Ocean. Inserted pages highlight such distinctive aspects as the northern lights and the noises sea creatures make. Although Kaplan's volume does not provide as detailed information as April Pulley Sayre's Tundra (21st Century, 1994), it is nevertheless a colorful and easy-to-follow introduction, aside from a possibly confusing food web chart. A color-keyed map in each book clearly illustrates worldwide biome locations and distribution. Attractive, readable additions.-Frances E. Millhouser, Chantilly Regional Library, VA