This handsome book introduces parrots through realistic paintings and simply written text. On each double-page spread, a full-page picture illustrating a particular species faces a white page that identifies the bird and briefly comments on the characteristics, behaviors, and habitats of parrots. The lengthy back matter includes a small reproduction of each plate, accompanied by a paragraph that offers more information about the species of parrot shown. For instance, plate 18 shows a green bird sitting on a log. The text identifies it as a kakapo and reads, "It is important to protect parrots and the places where they live." The back matter then discusses why parrots are endangered and offers facts about the kakapo. Written by a former teacher and illustrated by a painter educated in wildlife biology, this book presents basic information along with varied, beautiful watercolor paintings. A colorful addition to the long-running About . . . series.

A simple sentence or two of text on left-hand pages face detailed full-page paintings of more than eighteen parrots worldwide on the right. Each numbered and labeled plate corresponds to an afterword that contains a fact-filled paragraph with more information on the bird (distribution, habitat, food, special capabilities, etc.). Easily accessible initially, the information expands with the reader's skill. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos.