Fun With Nature (Take Along Guides)

Fun with Nature helps kids discover the incredible world in their backyards. It is a compilation of seven bestselling titles: Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies; Frogs, Toads and Turtles; Snakes, Salamanders and Lizards; Rabbits, Squirrels and Chipmunks; Tracks, Scats and Signs; and Trees, Leaves and Bark. This entertaining book is filled with fascinating facts and awesome activities.

Fun with Nature is six nature handbooks in one. Each of the book's six sections--"Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies"; "Frogs, Toads and Turtles"; "Rabbits, Squirrels and Chipmunks"; "Snakes, Salamanders and Lizards"; "Tracks, Scats and Signs"; and "Trees, Leaves and Bark"--is like its own self-contained book. Although nothing is covered in great depth, the reader does not feel short-changed. The text, illustrations and easy-to-follow format of the first four sections teach us what each animal looks like, what it eats and where it can be found. The section focusing on tracks, droppings (scat) and signs is organized by habitat and includes information about a number of animals, each shown in the setting where it is most likely to be sighted. The book's final section, about trees, leaves and bark, is particularly striking. The stark layout highlights the illustrations and brings details to the forefront. Most notable are the drawings of bark. They show the texture so realistically that there almost appear to be actual pieces of bark pasted onto the page. The book has several blank pages at the end of each section, should your young explorer wish to make sketches or take notes. Some hands-on activities are also suggested. In addition, advice and special warnings that will enhance your outings are set off in boxes at the bottom of many pages. Contrary to the title, this volume is a bit too heavy to work well as a field guide on a hike, but it's a great resource for reading beforehand and for referring to on your return. Young naturalists will enjoy this book.

Joan Silberlicht Epstein