BUCKMASTER, Marjorie L. Freshwater Fishes . ISBN 978-0-7614-2712-4 . LC 2007017809. HANEY, Johannah . Turtles . ISBN 978-0-7614-2709-4 . LC 2006038157. HART, Joyce . Big Dogs . ISBN 978-0-7614-2707-0 . LC 2007013042. HART, Joyce . Cats. ISBN 978-0-7614-2710-0 . LC 2007016462. ea vol: 48p. (Great Pets Series). photos. reprods. further reading. glossary. index. Web sites. CIP. Marshall Cavendish/Benchmark . 2007. PLB $19.95. Gr 2-4 Enthusiastic, warm introductions to the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership. Information about common breeds and varieties is included, along with bright color photos. Rabbits discusses the Netherland dwarf, Jersey wooly, American fuzzy lop, and so on. Fishes covers betas, mollies, tetras, etc. Turtles describes red-eared sliders, cooters, and spotted turtles, among others. Dogs explores the advantages of choosing either a puppy or an adult animal as a pet. Cats highlights the Main Coon, Manx, Sphynx, and other felines. The care of each animal is outlined, with advice and warnings about when to ask an adult or a veterinarian for assistance. The answer to whether the pet in question is right for the reader is well considered with the pros and cons, emphasizing sacrifices of time and effort that will be rewarded by companionship or other satisfactions. What needs to be done to prepare a home or yard is discussed, as is where to buy the pet, potential problems, and good questions to ask the seller. Straightforward discussions of what the animals eat and how to keep them healthy and their environments clean are included. The books open with material on some famous animals and mythology, which distracts from their purpose, but they are clearly written and are the most thorough, honest introductions to owning a pet for this audience. Nancy Call, Santa Cruz Public Libraries, Aptos, CA