Sea Turtles FROM THE CRITICS
Children's Literature - Judy Katsh
This book is rich in information about topics much sought after by elementary school-aged report writers. It is graced with many full color photographs, clear page design, and easy-to-use glossary and index. These strengths make it a perfect resources for readers ages 8 and up. And if those potential users can get past the "Early Bird Nature Book" label, the "Notes to Adults" and "Sharing a Book" sections; they will find a lot of fine information-even some that they would be unlikely to find independently elsewhere!
School Library Journal
Gr 3-4-In a well-organized and clearly written text, Staub looks at the life cycles of the five types of sea turtles. Full-color photographs depict the animals in the ocean waters surrounding the U.S. and on the beaches where they lay their eggs. The author begins with a general discussion and then describes different species' specific features: the leatherback's dark, tough skin; the hawksbill's beak; and the green turtle's colored fat. Because sea turtles spend almost their entire lives far at sea, little is known about their lives other than nesting. The dangers during this period-to the mother, the egg, the babies-are clearly described and illustrated. The explanations in the narrative are amplified by relevant photographs, e.g., a hand holding three turtle eggs to show their relative sizes, and the turtles' ability to excrete excess salt only though their tears. Sizes and shapes are compared to familiar objects such as bathtubs (ultimate size of some leatherbacks) and large pizzas (ridleys). Environmental dangers and attempts at protection are thoughtfully treated in a separate chapter. A two-page guide for adults on sharing the book with children as well as a brief glossary and index are appended.-Frances E. Millhouser, Reston Regional Library, VA
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