Koalas

June 1, 2014
Grades K-2 Cute, cuddly koalas are often mistaken for bears, but this book dispels that and many other myths. Koalas' ecosystem, life cycle, feeding habits, and social behaviors are all discussed in straightforward detail. The publisher categorizes this series by readability, and this book, a level one, is written for kids who are just learning to read on their own. The text, therefore, is concise and contains plenty of sight words. Silly riddles and interesting trivia dot the pages, and the maps included live up to the standards set by other National Geographic Kids books. Full-color photographs are not only engaging and attractive but also serve to provide context for emergent readers. A picture glossary is included in the back matter. As an added incentive for reading, this edition is one of the many books on the publisher's website that include related puzzles, games, quizzes, and a downloadable poster.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2014, American Library Association.)

May 1, 2014

K-Gr 2-These titles are geared to those without much previous knowledge on the subjects; the information is basic but engaging. Each book includes fact bubbles and new words defined on the page, as well as in a picture glossary at the back. A page of picture puzzles highlighting details from the text makes the reading more interactive. Several jokes are printed in Koalas and Plant to Seed, making them especially fun. These two titles also include photographs that are bright and detailed, clearly illustrating the ideas in the texts. George Washington offers a mix of images of period paintings and photographs (including one of false teeth that could have been Washington's). The time line is another useful nonfiction tool for independent readers. While Koalas will likely have the most browsing appeal, all three titles will be useful for first reports and are good additions to beginning-reader collections.-Laura Stanfield, Campbell County Public Library, Ft. Thomas, KY

Copyright 2014 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2014
These solid leveled readers about the title animals feature simple, clear sentences; attractive, well-labeled photographs; and strong organization. The layouts are energetic, and new readers will especially appreciate the inclusion of jokes. A picture puzzle concludes Koalas, and a "Stump Your Parents" quiz wraps up Manatees; both include a table of contents and a photo glossary.

(Copyright 2014 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)