Our Natural Homes: Exploring Terrestrial Biomes of North and South America (Our Perfect Planet)

Defines the Earth's land ecosystems through the characteristic plants and animals found in each

Grade 3-6?An introduction to the terrestrial biomes of North and South America. Clear, direct writing communicates basic facts about the areas' unique features and explains how their flora and fauna have adapted to their particular climates. Tundra, boreal forest, mountains, temperate deciduous forests, temperate evergreen rain forests, grasslands, deserts, chaparral, and tropical forests are each covered in a double-page spread. Inviting gouache paintings reflect and extend the text. However, the times of year discussed may create some confusion. For instance, the section on the tundra opens with a description of winter conditions, while the scene shown is clearly a summertime view. The illustration of the temperate deciduous forest shows the trees in blazing autumnal colors, which, while accurate, only last for a very short period. Most children's books focus on one biome, such as the tropical rain forest, without mentioning others. Our Natural Homes is a serviceable addition for school assignments and general reading.?Anne Parker, Milton Public Library, MA
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.