This sixth book in the All About series answers basic questions about these shell-encased reptiles. Arnosky explains where they live, how shells and appendages differ among land and aquatic species, and which senses are particularly well developed. He also touches on feeding habits, reproductive cycles, and the difficulties encountered by hatchlings as they migrate from nest hole to habitat. Full-color double-page spreads show turtles in a variety of activities. Most are accompanied by informative captions, and several display interior views. Of particular note are the three opening spreads showing a life-size alligator snapping turtle, and endpapers picturing tracks and shell drag in the sand. Succinct, yet full of details, this is a good introduction for browsers or young researchers. (Reviewed February 1, 2000)

Realistic illustrations in greens, yellows, and browns show freshwater, saltwater, and land-dwelling turtles, offer size comparisons among different turtle eggs and baby turtles, and display a life-size snapping turtle by splitting it up over three spreads. The simple sentences, briefly describing turtle habitats, diet, shell structure, and reproduction, provide an informative introduction to these reptiles.

Gr 1-4-As in the previous titles in this series, Arnosky draws on his personal experiences and observations to share his fascination for the natural world with children. The realistic, colorful illustrations depict a wide variety of turtles, from the massive marine leatherbacks to the land-loving box turtle and the familiar painted turtle of freshwater ponds. This visual feast is accompanied by a simple text describing turtle physiology, habitats, lifestyles, and reproduction. An unfortunate lapse, however, is that there is no scale to indicate size comparison, which may confuse children not up on turtle physiology. Team this with Melvin Berger's less elegant (but still attractive) Look Out for Turtles! (HarperCollins, 1992) for a fine chelonian presentation.-Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.