Polar Animals (Animal Word Books) - Hardcover

Paul Hess is the illustrator of Hungry! Hungry! Hungry!, Once There Was a Hoodie, and The Pig in a Wig.

PreSchool-Grade 2-In each of these books, short, rollicking rhymes set amid eye-catching paintings playfully describe eight animals that are native to a particular type of habitat. Often the creatures are given general names (monkey, parrot, penguin, seal) rather than specific ones, but the presentation of facts is not the purpose here. A highly attractive double-page spread is devoted to each entry. Easy-to-read black print on pastel backgrounds is bordered on the left by scenes of animals swimming, slithering, strolling, and simply living in their natural settings. Charming large illustrations of the individual animals appear on the right, affording readers a more intimate view. The depth, texture, and richness of the artwork combine gracefully with the rhymes ("DON'T ever make the bad mistake/of stepping on the sleeping snake/because his jaws/might be awake."). The brevity and humor of each verse, lush yet uncluttered illustrations, and inviting format make these books ideal for laptime sharing. However, the nonspecific nature of the descriptions may lead children to believe that penguins live in the same areas as the Arctic animals featured.
Lisa Wu Stowe, Great Neck Library, NY
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.