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Friday, June 4, 2010

Nature Explorer, written by David Burnie et al. DK, Tournaline Editions. 2010. $16.99 ages 9 and up


"Insects are some of the finest builders in the animal world. Unlike human builders, they do not have to learn how to carry out their work. Instead, their instincts tell them what plan to follow and what materials to use."

I cannot say enough about the wonderful books of nonfiction that come to us from DK Publishing. They are filled with information that begs to be shared, the clear and brilliant photographs add much to a child's visual literacy and in this book, readers are invited to become explorers of their natural world through a number of guided and appealing activities.

The table of contents lists six different areas of learning to be undertaken when kids share this fine book. The first is as birdwatcher. A brief description of birds and their own special characteristics leads to a list of equipment that will be helpful if a child is interested in learning more about them. Instructions for building a blind and a bird table are given which will offer close-up observation. And so it goes through more than forty pages, all resplendent with new and old learning and ideas for the young researcher.

If the reader wants more...there are sections about bug hunting, star gazing, rock and fossil hunting, being a nature ranger and finally, watching the weather. Each one is filled with fascinating tidbits and a variety of activities to extend and enhance new learning.

An extensive glossary and a useful index add to the appeal and demonstrate what is so good about this publishing house's commitment to the nonfiction genre. Bravo!

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