Animals by the Numbers: A Book of Infographics (By The Numbers)

Gr 2-6--Jenkins combines cut-and-torn-paper illustrations with infographics to present highly engaging visual comparisons from the animal kingdom. Ranging from one to four pages in length, the graphic sections feature careful layouts that convey well-chosen and fascinating data. Clean lines and abundant white space lead readers to absorb the information without strain or confusion. In one example, a horizontal bar graph examines the speeds of 15 animals, each identified by name and a silhouette figure. In addition, illustrations highlight two particular examples with captions. Varied graph formats demonstrate each topic to maximum effect. Concentric circles show the surprising differences between wing speeds of hummingbirds and gnats. Cut-paper horns are neatly placed within a bar graph of horn lengths. There's even a logic tree outlining the decision-making process of an armadillo. Scales are clearly noted, even when they shift on the following page, as in the impressive four-page look at the deadliest animals that reveals the mosquito's clear dominance. Estimated data is always identified, such as numbers representing the combined biomass of species. In some cases, two graphs are used to offer different perspectives on the topic: a horizontal bar graph details tongue lengths, for example, while on the facing page a vertical depiction compares those lengths to the size of each animal (and the bars are cleverly rounded to resemble tongues). VERDICT Compelling visual presentation makes the information accessible and exciting. Highly recommended for all science collections.--Steven Engelfried, Wilsonville Public Library, OR

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Amazon Best Children's Books of the Year: NonFiction
Book Links' Lasting Connections 2016
Bulletin Blue Ribbon 2016
Raleigh News & Observer

* ..".An eminently browsable overview with all the clickbait appeal of websites and paperbacks with redeployed content but with some thoughtful implications about animals... Animal-loving kids, sensationalism-loving kids, and facts-loving kids will be surprised to find common ground here."
—Bulletin

* "Compelling visual presentation makes the information accessible and exciting. Highly recommended for all science collections."
—School Library Journal, STARRED review

* "The intriguing and engaging format of this title is stimulating on a variety of levels, and the approach should appeal to a wide range of students, especially visual learners, something for which educators will be grateful. A brilliantly executed take on a perennially high-interest topic."
—Booklist, STARRED review

* "A special treat for all who love animal statistics."
—Kirkus, STARRED review

"Steve Jenkins's work... is characterized by exquisite cut- and torn-paper collages, a particular affinity for zoology, a plethora of pithy facts and trivia, and an elegant design aesthetic that allows readers to navigate information-heavy pages without becoming confused or disoriented." —Horn Book