Science writer Pringle truly delivers with his latest, a fascinating look at the similarities and differences among the many and varied species of frogs.
Think that all frogs jump on the ground, are green and leave their eggs/tadpoles to fend for themselves? Well, this text will set readers straight. The Reinwardt’s flying frog glides between trees, the mantella and poison frogs come in all the colors of the rainbow and one can guess what makes the marsupial frog stand out. Nothing if not thorough, this covers just about everything one would want to know about frogs. Camouflage, mating, development, coloring, size, locomotion, how and what they eat and how and why they make sounds are just some of the topics. The last few pages deal with humans and the ways they affect frog populations and habitats. While Pringle presents large paragraphs of information on each page, he perfectly measures out each fact, balancing it with some interesting tidbit sure to fascinate and help kids remember the details that are presented. Henderson’s detailed, realistic watercolors match the text, showing the great diversity among the many species of frogs. Insets accompany much of her full-spread artwork, allowing her to depict the many variations that exist.
Budding herpetologists will snap this one up faster than a frog can catch a fly. (author’s note, answer key, list of resources for more information) (Nonfiction. 6-10)
