From the An I Can Read series, this clearly written resource introduces tigers in the wild. In addition to discussing matters such as camouflage, hunting, territories, and the raising of tiger cubs, Thomson explains why tigers are endangered and what can be done to save the species. The text is written in a simple, direct manner. One or two color photos appear on each double-page spread, but the large-print text is printed on white backgrounds, making the words more distinct for beginning readers. On the last page, several paragraphs in smaller print introduce the tiger project of the Wildlife Conservation Society, which provided the illustrations for this book.

Appealing color photos (provided by the Wildlife Conservation Society) of tigers in their natural habitats support the well-constructed and interesting text. Hunting, physical characteristics, habitat, raising young, and conservation are briefly covered. Words that might prove difficult for beginning readers are defined in context, and pronunciation is provided.

Majestic tigers with glowing eyes "burning bright" are the focus of this early reader, part of the respected I Can Read series. Simple but interesting information is effectively conveyed in the text, covering camouflage, prey, life cycle, environment, and endangerment issues. The methods that scientists use to study tigers are clearly explained, with concluding recommendations for ways to sustain and increase the world tiger population, all written in straightforward sentences that first- and second-graders can understand. An author's note directed to adults provides additional information about tigers and the Wildlife Conservation Society, which provided the stunning photographs that illustrate tiger behavior in this volume. The photos include a snarling tiger on the cover as well as striking shots of tigers sunning, stalking, swimming, striding, and stretching. This well-written volume will be useful for beginning research reports as well as for early reading practice. (Easy reader/nonfiction. 5-8)

K-Gr 3-Riveting full-color photos, simple vocabulary, and large print make this an appealing choice for beginning readers. Featuring images from the Wildlife Conservation Society, the book is not divided into sections, but does supply details about the tiger's striped patterns, hunting habits, weight, cubs, and territorial behavior. There is an emphasis on species endangerment and preservation. Although the facts are clearly presented, the tone is sometimes too simplistic, such as "All cats are hunters, just like tigers. House cats are pets." When describing the tiger's size, it is misleading to say that its weight of 550 pounds is "-more than two baby elephants," when elephants can weigh between 250 and 320 pounds at birth. Tigers are said to live in "-forests or jungles or swamps," or the snows of Russia, or "-parts of India," but there is no mention of other countries, and there is no map. Don Middleton's Tigers (PowerKids, 1999) gives slightly more information, has easy vocabulary, and is better written.-Lynda Ritterman, Atco Elementary School, Waterford, NJ Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.