Animal Planet Animal Atlas

Gr 3–6—Eye-catching and comprehensive, this wildlife atlas profiles more than 200 animals, grouped by geographic location and by the biomes they inhabit. Well-conceived page layouts rely on color-coding, clear borders, and a balance of spot photos, broader scenes, and cartoonish maps to provide an enticing, easy-to-follow visual presentation. Each chapter opens with a full-page drawing that depicts one of the continents and includes animal images and rough locations of biomes but no national borders. This approach emphasizes the role of environmental conditions on animal life. Subsequent spreads identify several creatures specific to each biome within the continent. Species profiles are brief, typically stressing just one or two physical traits, such as the jackrabbit's ears or the cheetah's speed and hunting abilities. Chapters close with a more in-depth look at a single animal and an impressive close-up photograph. An animal index offers quick access, limited slightly by the lack of cross-references. Among the other features are cartoon animals doling out fast facts, notes on animal qualities that are "surprisingly human," and text boxes highlighting conservation efforts for threatened animals and environments. This volume is similar in appeal and depth of material to National Geographic Kids' Wild Animal Atlas, though with a different enough look and feel to allow room for both on most shelves.