April 1, 2011
Gr 4-5-Individual volumes in this narrowly focused series merit consideration-particularly Arctic Wolf, as it profiles one of the rarest subspecies on Earth (population estimated at about 200) and Sled Dogs, which opens by introducing Isobel, a blind lead dog, then goes on to cover rescue dogs, dog training, and the Iditarod. The other volumes begin by visiting a research biologist in the field. Each book features systematically presented basic information about its animal's physical features, habitat (with range maps) and special adaptations, followed by closing spreads of recapped facts and glimpses of several other arctic creatures. Sled Dogs features period photos; it and the others also offer photos of the animals in natural settings.
Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
July 1, 2011
The authors describe various animals that live and thrive in arctic environments. Each volume begins by introducing a scientist studying the title creature; that person acts as expert by providing quotes throughout the book. The information is solid but tends to meander. Colorful photos, maps, sidebars, and accounts of real-life encounters with the animals will engage readers curious about the natural world. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.
(Copyright 2011 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)