by Martin Jenkins (Author) Jane McGuinness (Illustrator)
A conservation biologist looks at some of the many kinds of animal babies--and the many ways their parents take care of them--in a gentle introduction for young children.
Some animals have big babies (did you know a newborn whale weighs three tons?). And some animals have babies that are small (a new kangaroo, less than an inch long, climbs into its mother's pouch to stay safe and warm). All animals have babies, but not all animal babies are the same, and not all animal parents are the same, either.
From parents whose babies look just like them to those with no resemblance at all, from parents who raise their young in a crowd to those who do it all on their own, the range of family setups depicted here shows just how much the lives of animal babies can vary from the time they're born.
Melding a simple narration with more detailed facts on a variety of creatures from leopards to lizards, elephants to sea turtles, butterflies to chimpanzees, fish to flamingos, this fascinating picture book also offers a brief note on animal parents and babies in the back matter.
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K-Gr 2--The title of this book tells readers exactly what to expect. Conservation biologist Jenkins chronicles myriad ways animal babies are raised in the wild. The broad range of animals featured include aquatic, land-dwelling, mammal, amphibian, marsupial, and insect. All examples are paired with their opposites: big babies/small babies, large groups/solo animal parents, and so on. Jenkins's differentiated text makes this book an excellent read-aloud and accessible to readers of varying skill levels. Each animal is introduced by a simple statement in large bold text. Optional text, with longer sentences and more complicated vocabulary, accompanies each example to provide more details. McGuinness's charming mixed-media illustrations are full of soft colors and fine lines. Her artwork makes all the animals appear sweet and friendly. Even the trypophobia-triggering Surinam toad looks downright cute. Back matter features an index of animals and an author's note about the cold reality of life in the wild: some animal babies do not survive. However, the book ends on a hopeful note that the circle of life always finds a way to keep turning. VERDICT Full of unique facts and appeal for a wide range of ages, this book is a welcome addition to most shelves.--Chance Lee Joyner
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