Wolves (Naturebooks)

Grade 1-3-These books are similar to those in the "Wildlife Library" series (Child's World) but are slightly smaller in format. The gorgeous, full-color photographs are big, clear, and detailed, and each one faces a page with a paragraph or two of text in large-print type. Basic information about physical characteristics and behavior is covered, though the variety of species are just touched upon and wolf cubs are given short shrift. It's unfortunate that there are no habitat maps, which would add to a child's grasp of the importance of these animals, especially since both deer and wolves can be found around the world. Still, these vibrant, simple titles are excellent additions to nonfiction collections. Emilie U. Lepthien's Wolves (1991), Joan Kalbacken's White-Tailed Deer (1992, both Children's), and Jim Arnosky's All about Deer (Scholastic, 1996) offer a little more detail and depth.
Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System, FL
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