What to Expect When You're Expecting Hatchlings

Gr 1-3—Heos's humorous, chatty introduction to what crocodilian parents do to protect their eggs and hatchlings until the offspring are able to take on their own predatory role is evenly orchestrated through Jorisch's hilarious line drawing and watercolors. The family encompasses alligators, crocodiles, caimans, and gharials, and the differences among these reptiles are explicated. Interesting facts about their diet, habitat, physical development, and behavior will entertain and inform young readers. The information is delivered to the crocodilian parents in a Q & A format: amid heavy personification, there is a good deal of material suitable for use in reports. A well-written glossary and a well-selected further reading list enhance the learning experience.—Nancy Call, formerly at Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA