Boomslangs

April 1, 2018

K-Gr 2-Snake profiles aimed at beginning readers offer a handful of very basic facts. Relying on one or two short, simple sentences per spread, Murray describes physical characteristics, such as scales, fangs, size, and colors, as well as habitat, prey, and life expectancy. The direct language is appropriate for early readers and briefly covers the most notable qualities of each snake. Well-chosen photographs inject some liveliness. Most images fill the spread, showing the snakes in a variety of situations. Close-ups highlight key features, such as the eyes of the boomslang or the black mamba's fangs. The majority of the books provide an image of the snake preying upon other animals. VERDICT Strong selections for new readers of nonfiction.

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2018
These brief beginning readers consist of short, simple sentences to acquaint readers with six of the world's deadliest snakes. Though the detail provided is minimal, each book includes the species' geographic location, habitat, diet, physical characteristics, prey, venom potency, and longevity in the wild. Bold, close-up photographs add interest and provide children with a basic understanding of which venomous snakes to avoid. Glos., ind.

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