The Naturalist's Year: 24 Outdoor Explorations (Wiley Science Editions)

Are all snowflakes really different? Why do sugar maple leaves turn brilliant red, not yellow? These and many other questions are answered by The Naturalists' Year, a guide for the naturally curious. Organized in 26 chapters corresponding to two-week intervals throughout the year, readers are given close-up investigations into nature, with in-depth discussions of biological, geological, botanical, and zoological phenomena that they can easily observe almost anywhere in the U.S. Beautifully illustrated with art and photos, and filled with interesting science projects and activities.

YA Camazine's 24 chapters offer 24 ``organisms or natural phenomena that can be easily observed in the United States at a particular time of year.'' These include skunk cabbage, bird watching, insect pollination of flowers, chemically-defended invertebrates, and creating a miniature avalanche. The chapters begin with an explanation of the important concepts of the topic, and then provide a carefully-explained activity such as how to clean a skeleton so that the bones can be reassembled. Each chapter closes with a short list of references for further information. The writing style is clear, easy, and encouraging to beginners. Curious students may use this as a starting point forscience projects, or just for fun. Elnora Harcomb, Episcopal High School, Bellaire
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.