Gr 4-8-These detailed overviews provide researchers with sufficient information for most reports. Strong writing melds well with well-selected photos, all of which are clearly produced and of high quality. Some of the images are stunning, such as the full-page proboscis (Butterflies), an oil-spill-coated African Penguin (Penguins), and a bright-green crab spider holding onto a blade of grass (Spiders).The texts outline the animals' evolution, physical attributes, reproduction, life cycles, and habitat. Easy-to-understand diagrams of the body parts are included. Supremely well-organized and satisfying presentations.-Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.

These conversationally written titles introduce readers to two very different species. In each handsomely illustrated, accessible volume, the species is investigated in-depth, from its origins through popular mythology, life cycle, physical development, predators and prey, special skills such as web spinning, and relationship with humans. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.