Rather than delivering the basics, like lions, tigers, and bears, these volumes in the continuing Living Wild series focus on some of the planet's less understood yet often more intriguing animals. Geared for both the browsing reader and serious student, the oversize books blend detailed information with engaging sidebar facts and numerous high-quality color photos, many of which are full page. Each title presents an overview of the species as well as its physical characteristics, habitat, food sources, defense mechanisms, mating, care for its young, and special qualities that make it unusual or unique. An especially attractive volume, Peacocks tells the purpose of the bird's impressive plumage and how it cares for its feathers. All of the books consider how the animal has been represented in religion, literature, art, and popular media and even include a short folktale or myth related to the creature. Perhaps most important is how the series addresses threats, particularly human impact, to the survival of these species. Whether weird, beautiful, or simply adorable, this series has its animals covered.

Eye-catching close-up photographs enliven these informative texts, focusing on one animal per volume. Appearance, habitat, diet, behavior, conservation efforts, and presence in human culture are all addressed in great detail, while sidebars provide additional information. Although lengthy chapters and the absence of a table of contents make quick reference difficult, thorough indexing helps mitigate this drawback. Bib., glos., ind.