Whales

Whales-those oceanic marvels-are endlessly interesting to kids, and this Level 2 book presents a simple and accessible overview for kids just starting to read on their own. Readers will learn that whales are mammals like dogs and horses (and us!), but mammals uniquely adapted to sea life. The beautiful watercolor artwork captures all the strength and unique grace of these creatures.

Describes wetlands, the different kinds of animals that can be found in them, and their ecological importance.

Describes wetlands, the different kinds of animals that can be found in them, and their ecological importance.

Marilyn Courtot - Children's Literature

I did not know that there are almost seventy-five different types of whales, ten of which are named on a spread in this book. Humpback whales sing, but no one knows why. Blue whales are the biggest animals in the world and are even larger than the dinosaurs. These and other facts fill the pages of this early reader. Kids will also learn that whales are mammals; they nurse their young and need to breathe air. Also, you can identify whales by their spout. Certain whales have teeth; others have a substance called baleen like a giant mouth of stiff strands that trap small creatures called krill. Some whales can eat half a ton of krill in a day. Readers learn that whales can live a long time, some migrate and others may stay in the same general area. This nonfiction book could spur young readers to learn more and move on to books such as The Life Cycle of a Whale, Killer Whales, and Giant of the Sea: A Story of a Sperm Whale. The book is part of the "All Aboard Reading" series, Level 2. 2002, Grosset and Dunlap,