Arlington Independent School District - Ann Whatley
The concept of camouflage is briefly explained as well as what makes a forest. A section called "Find the Forest Animals" provides two photos of each animal as well as a description. The first photo is in color and the second photo is in black and white except for the camouflaged animal so that it is clearly revealed. Information is very basic making this an appealing book for younger readers. –Ann Whatley, Butler School <i> Arlington Independent School District </i> 2/6/2011
February 6, 2011Library Media Connection - Maureen Mooney
Camouflage and habitats are seen in a different and exciting way through this new series. Each book has large font and minimal text with a large color photograph on each page. The series’ unique perspective uses photographs of an animal in hiding. The next page then shows the same picture with the camouflaged animal highlighted so the reader can see it. Each title also covers several animals that stand out instead of needing to blend in with their surroundings. Younger students will love these books, not only for the interesting facts and the way they are presented, but for the "I-Spy-like" photographs. These books are a fun way to learn about the creatures who use camouflage to survive; perfect for animal projects and the study of animal habitats. A simple contents page make this a winner for an introductory lesson for younger students. Glossary. Index. – Maureen Mooney, Library Media Specialist, Caroline St. School, Saratoga Springs, New York <i> Library Media Connection</i> January/February 2011
November 14, 2011NSTA Recommends - Karen Timmons
This book provides information on adaptations that go beyond just camouflage. As part of a series of primary leveled readers, it is a valuable resource for teaching the concepts. Each of the eight books in the series highlights a different ecosystem and the animals adapted to thrive in it. Because all the books in the series use the same format, navigating is easy. Hiding in Forests begins with a simple definition of a forest and differentiates between a temperate and boreal forest. Although camouflage is the feature highlighted, it is not the only form of adaptation discussed. Unique behavioral adaptations are included. For instance, readers will learn that not many predators will eat a brightly colored lady, remembering that it gives off a bad smell. They will also learn about the tawny frogmouth of Australia, which positions itself during the day to appear to be a branch. The combination of environment, behavior, and body forms makes for some fantastic adaptations. Unlike others in this series, this book does not have a map to help students locate forests. This book is no substitute for taking young learners outside into their local environment to look for adaptations of animals and plants. It does, however, open the door to understanding that animals all over the world must adapt to survive in their ecosystems. Strategies are given to help young students read and understand the book and to help primary teachers. Each page has one to three sentences in a large black print, which is appropriate for primary students. There is a contrasting explanation box overlapping each photo, and page numbers are highly visible for use with groups of students. Science terms that may challenge a student’s reading level are accompanied by phonetic spellings. Highlighted glossary terms are limited, making it less likely that younger students will be overwhelmed and helping them focus. Camouflaged animals are expertly hidden in photos and uniquely revealed. An identical photo is on the next page depicting the animal against a contrasting gray-and-white background. This helps even the youngest students to distinguish the animal's physical characteristics. Giving the students enough time to examine the photographs may tempt them to turn the page to find the animal revealed. Each book in this series explains one unique ecosystem and highlights animals that have adapted to that environment. The entire series helps students to understand the importance of adaptation to survival in diverse ecosystems. – Karen Timmons, Educator <i>NSTA Recommends</i> 3/18/2011 Website
March 18, 2011
