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Giraffes.
Bobbie Kalman and Greg Nickles. Subject Heading:
Kindergarten - grade 5 / Ages 5 - 10.
*** /4
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excerpt:
No two giraffes have identical spots on their coat. Giraffes from the same area of Africa, however, have similar spot patterns. The patterns may act as camouflage by helping giraffes hide from predators. The spots blend in with trees and make giraffes hard to see when they are standing still.The above facts, as well as many others, can be found in this fascinating book. Well laid out and well formatted, the book is dedicated to the African mammal with topics ranging from habitat and food to predators and poachers. Each topic is given a double page spread, complete with photographs and/or diagrams. The numerous photographs are clear and close-up, with an amazing series looking at the birth of a calf. Several images depict the creatures in their natural habitat. Bold diagrams provide a detailed look at a giraffe, a map of Africa and illustrations of the nine subspecies. A few small illustrations have been added for colour and interest, and decorative motifs adorn the pages. Despite the many small touches, the pages are clean and uncluttered. A table of contents introduces the various topics, while an index adds to the accessibility. The writing is clear and straightforward, and uses a wide vocabulary. Children may be introduced to several unfamiliar terms such as "reticulated" and "symbiotic relationship", but the words are bolded as well as being defined within the text. A small dictionary of "Words to Know" can be found at the back of the book, with short and precise definitions which are easily understood. A page of interesting "Giraffe facts" is sure to have even very young children sounding like experts.Giraffes need only 30 minutes of sleep each day. They cannot swim.
Recommended.
Shannon Nesdoly is a mother of two and an Education student at the Faculty of Education, University of Manitoba.
To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.
Copyright © 1998 the Manitoba Library Association.
Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice
is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without
permission.
Published by
TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THIS ISSUE - APRIL 24, 1998.
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The Manitoba Library Association
ISSN 1201-9364