These charming books in the In My Backyard series help readers get up close and personal with several common types of small North American wildlife. Large color photos capture the essence of each animal while providing a sense of intimacy and wonder at the same time. Each book begins with an action-sequence introduction, as if the reader is himself or herself actually discovering the backyard animal. The main text is simple but appealing and informative, including a good mix of basic information and fun facts about each animal. Icons at the top of each text page give a clue to its contents. Each book concludes with an activity intended to help readers synthesize some of the information in a creative way. The activity in Moles iting a story, including details about the mole protagonist's environment and character y challenge some readers, but others will be inspired. Overall, these books will encourage children and even adults to observe local wildlife with a more sophisticated, understanding eye.

These books about common backyard creatures provide basic information on offspring, appearance, habitat, diet, and predators. Although the writing feels stilted in places, the layouts are clean and inviting, with text, a small photo, and a set-off individual fact on one page and a crisp full-page photo on the facing page. A creative activity is included in each book. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.