The discovery of a living coelacanth, a fish previously known only from 65-million-year-old fossils, leads off this introduction to "living fossils," current animal species that researchers can study to learn about their prehistoric ancestors. Throughout the book, Arnold's writing is concise, descriptive, and informative. Illustrated with large, nicely composed acrylic paintings that show the creatures within their natural habitats, the text presents five additional species: the horseshoe crab, dragonfly, tuatara, chambered nautilus, and Hula painted frog. The first spread in each four-page section features the animal in prehistoric times, while the second discusses the animal as it is today. This now-and-then structure works well to tell the two-part story of each organism. Back matter includes a time line, more detailed information on species, and a note clarifying that though the ancient and modern animals may share the same name and basic appearance, they did evolve and are not identical. An intriguing look at animals, past and present, and a fine addition to the science shelves.

Perfect for mid-elementary paleontology enthusiasts, this book opens a window to the prehistoric past. Examining six "living fossils" ("an informal term for a modern-day plant or animal that resembles its ancient relatives"), Arnold clearly describes each ancestor and how its relative survives today; lifelike acrylic paintings differentiate the "then" and "now" of back-to-back spreads. Reading list, timeline, websites. Glos.

Gr 3-6 A glimpse into the world of living fossils, or modern-day plants or animals that are very similar to now-extinct species. Realistic acrylic paintings of the different creatures and their fossilized counterparts accompany brief text describing the creatures and comparing them to their modern versions. Sidebars point to specific survival adaptations that have allowed the horseshoe crab and dragonfly to survive from their initial evolution to today, for examples. An overview time line, which covers 3.5 billion years, will help readers see the sequence of development. The volume ends with a spread that offers further details about the six species covered. VERDICT A strong addition to all libraries and one that dinosaur fanatics will love. Dorcas Hand, Annunciation Orthodox School, Houston, TX