HABITATS

Big, heavy-duty spinners in this French import invite young naturalists to match creatures and also colors in five different habitats.

In crowded settings created with blocky, geometric shapes Newman packs in stylized but easily recognizable flora, fauna, and physical features associated with either a relatively specific habitat, such as the African savanna, or a more-generic one—such as, for a surprise at the end, a “Big City.” For each, two sturdy, toothed wheels at the side turn to bring one of four named animals or items into view within a die-cut window as well as one of four unnamed colors to spot. That’s not all there is to see in each spread by any stretch, and adults should be ready to help youngsters identify various unnamed animals and items in addition to the seal, the Arctic hare, the owl, and the igloo in the “Ice Field.” Diapered literati on this side of the Atlantic may need some help identifying a “tuk-tuk” in the Indian jungle and elsewhere naming several of the hues that move away from primary colors to in-between shades, but each scene not only offers lots to see and discuss, but is printed on stock heavy enough to weather repeat toddler tests. Human figures visible in the city are all portrayed with various shades of brown skin; many of those that appear earlier are rendered more fancifully, in blue, mustard, pink, and gray.

Bright, busy, and well designed to keep younger eyes and hands involved.