What sets this series apart from other wildlife series is that it goes beyond the usual fare. One chapter, devoted to folklore, highlights sharks and whales as depicted in books, art and film. Another chapter, listing the pros and cons of a specific issue [keeping Great Whites in captivity, for instance], raises readers' awareness and fosters critical thinking. For those students who might wish to learn more about the animals and how to protect them, names and addresses of conservation groups follow the section on the problems facing the particular species.

      The books contain abundant, current and accurate information; they are well-organized with attractive layouts. Text is printed in a simple, medium-sized font. Words in boldface type, in the body of the text, appear in the glossary. Other features include a table of contents, an index and a suggested reading list. Plenty of coloured diagrams, charts, maps and photographs enhance the text and reinforce the concepts in each chapter. Worth noting is the fact that the vocabulary in Great White Sharks generally appears to be more difficult than that of Blue Whales.

Highly recommended.