Steven Engelfried
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Alligator: Master of Might
Adequate species data for beginners, with minimal tie-ins to the superhero motif.
The "superpowers" that make alligators, salamanders, and poison dart frogs unique as well as more basic information are introduced using short sentences and eye-catching color photographs. The information amounts to a cursory glance, but the material is presented in an engaging manner and may inspire further research. An illustrated "superhero" for each animal and a quiz are appended. Glos. Review covers these Super SandCastle: Animal Superpowers titles: Alligator, Poison Dart Frogs, and Salamander.
Boa Constrictor vs. Grizzly Bear
An intriguing premise with some appeal, but not completely engaging.
Crocodiles: Built for the Hunt
Above-average treatment of a high-interest topic.
Short two- or three-paragraph chapters accompanied by large, pertinent color photos clearly explain the concepts of predator and prey. The text focuses on the crocodile's hunting style: discussing the kinds of prey it seeks, the creature's size, speed, physical attributes, defenses against counterattack, and strategy. Fact sidebars and same-page vocabulary definitions are helpful design elements. Reading list. Glos., ind.
We Need Worms
The scope necessarily varies depending on the topic, but the theme of balanced ecosystems is well supported by words and images.
Bucky and Stu vs. the Mikanikal Man
An appealing choice for young superhero fans not quite ready for Marvel and DC.
The Big Ideas of Buster Bickles
While less compelling than other science-gone-wrong picture books such as Mac Barnett's Oh No! (Disney-Hyperion, 2010) or Chris Gall's Awesome Dawson (Little, Brown, 2013), Buster's crazy journey has a nice mix of techie adventure and visual humor.
Mad Scientist Academy: The Dinosaur Disaster
Like Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen's "Magic School Bus" series (Scholastic), the use of a school setting, a quirky teacher, and wild hands-on learning situations provides an engaging blend of humor, adventure, and information.
Get to Know Chameleons
Many libraries will have books on these animals already, but these solid presentations on perennially popular subjects are worth considering.
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