November 1, 2012
Gr 1-3-Whether dealing with photosynthesis or introducing unusual examples of meat-eating species, these volumes are strong introductions for early elementary learners. Clearly labeled photos reinforce information presented in adjacent text. Related questions encourage readers to make predictions or offer opinions about matters such as what type of weather might help scatter seeds. Small inset maps identify areas where many of the unusual plants (e.g., rafflesia plants with their giant flowers) can be found. Each book includes instructions for simple activities or experiments, including comparing growth in different types of soil and making a model of a cactus. Report writers will appreciate this series.
Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
October 1, 2012
Grades 1-3 The insect doesn't know it, but it has just made a big mistake. Yep, that fly just got suckered by the oldest trick in the book, the Venus flytrap's nectar. This entry in the Plant-ology series uses every inch of its wide trim to show the brilliantly colored, sticky-edged surfaces of these infamous freaks of nature. Details provided by the text and side boxes are reiterated within the glossy photos, as Lawrence works her way through the flytrap, sundew, butterwort, and pitcher plants, the last of which drowns its prey in a leafy cup. (Warning: includes terrifying picture of a rat caught in said cup.) Maps tell us where each plant can be found, and a short experiment concludes. Readers might just want one of these cool, quiet killers for themselves.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)
January 1, 2013
General information on many aspects of plant life is condensed for young children and set against crisp, dramatic color photos. The texts suffer from choppy writing, but more engaging are helpful labels paired with close-ups of plant parts, seed dispersal, adaptations, and various fascinating specimens. Each volume includes an appended experiment for aspiring botanists. Reading list. Glos., ind.
(Copyright 2013 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)