Priscilla Belz Jenkins is the author of two other books in the Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science series: A Nest Full of Eggs, illustrated by Lizzy Rockwell, and Falcons Nest on Skyscrapers, illustrated by Megan Lloyd. Ms. Jenkins lives in San Rafael, CA.
Kindergarten-Grade 3. A simple narrative follows a fictitious female manatee and her baby as she seeks a safe haven with sufficient food and warm, fresh water free from pollutants and human intrusion. Soft blue/green colored pencil and pastel illustrations provide visual reinforcement for young readers unfamiliar with these animals and their habitat and are perfectly matched with the text. There is much mention of human interference in manatee survival?from irresponsible boating to deliberate development of wetlands?as the concept of habitats and habitat loss is expounded upon. A concentrated page of data about the mammal is included for report writers, as is a world map depicting global distribution. The whole closes with a suggestion for individuals and/or classrooms to join the Save the Manatee Club (address and 800 number are given, but not mentioned is a required "adoption fee"). Despite that lapse, this is a nice addition to a helpful, informative, readable series.?Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY
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