Time to Eat

Part of a trio of new small-format picture books about animals, this guide to their dietary habits is anchored by the characteristically naturalistic yet artful collages readers have come to expect from this husband-and-wife team. Several animals are highlighted on each spread, set against white backdrops that keep all the attention on the art. Moments of levity balance the information being parceled out: "Ouch!" shouts an "unlucky grasshopper," who has just been impaled on a thorn by a butcherbird. Back matter provides even more information about the 17 featured animals. Also available: Time to Sleep and Time for a Bath. Ages 4-8. (May)

PreS-Gr 2--While readers' meal of choice may be different from that of the dung beetle, Jenkins and Page will convince youngsters to be thankful that those creatures thrive on animal waste. Providing a brief glimpse of the unusual eating habits of 17 animals supplemented by informational endnotes, the authors show respect and appreciation for the animal kingdom in their thoughtful and clear presentation of the facts. They also provide a touch of humor in occasional asides, as in the imagined voices of the animals: "I can't believe I ate the whole thing!" says the stuffed-full anaconda. As can be expected, the illustrations are astounding. Jenkins's signature cut-and-torn paper collages and textures are remarkable. The artist works with a gorgeous selection of papers and through his collage techniques manages wonderful contrasts, such as smooth bamboo against the soft fur of the giant panda. With phenomenal illustrations and facts both revolting and fascinating, this title is sure to please.--Heather Acerro, Allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne, IN

"The real zoological factsare as thrilling as monster stories....The beautiful cut- and torn-paper collage illustrations are as expertly colored, detailed, and expressive as in the creators' previous titles, and the layout, featuring plenty of white space, nicely spotlights each animal in action....Another stand-out science title from the husband-and-wife team."—Booklist, starred review

"These will be an effective way to introduce animal habits and to link them to human behavior, and they may elicit audience interest in further discussion and exploration." —Bulletin