Full Text Review(s)
"Information about different parts of animals’ bodies is presented in clear, though sometimes mature, language; for example, "Compound eyes are made up of hundreds or thousands of smaller parts called ommatidia" and "A woodpecker’s zygodactyl feet help it climb up tree trunks." An eye-pleasing, colorful format highlights the texts. Each chapter begins with a full-color, full-page photograph of the featured body part opposite the animal being discussed. It then explores the various shapes and functions of the part in other kinds of creatures. Brightly colored sidebars with catchy headings provide additional interesting tidbits. Many photographs are close-ups sure to elicit oohs and aahs from readers. A veiled chameleon is pictured catching a cricket several inches away with its long, sticky tongue, while an extreme close-up of a grasshopper’s long hind leg and a spotted moray’s nose bring magnification to the extreme. The excellent content and rare photographs will appeal to children, whether for research or leisure reading."