Reviews

Gr 6 Up-This visually delightful survey of the world's birds, grouped by similar lifestyle and characteristics, is a companion to the 10-volume Mammals (Grolier, 2003). Individual titles begin with volume 11 and include Ground Birds; Seabirds; Shorebirds; Waterbirds; Hunting Birds; Omnivorous Birds; Seed-, Fruit-, and Nectar-eating; Insectivorous; Tropical Forest; and Unusual Birds. The introduction defines what a bird is; provides labeled diagrams of main external and internal features; and discusses "Feather Form and Function," "Flight Styles," "Bills and Feeding," and more. Within each book, general articles on specific families are followed by separate entries on some typical members. Entries provide detailed descriptions, discuss life cycles, and consider conservation issues. Eye-appealing, close-up photographs of the creatures in their natural habitats and artists' renderings illustrate the entries. A data panel gives facts at a glance including size, distribution notes and map, and environmental status. Sidebars highlighted in pastel colors discuss the animals' relationship to humankind, such as the crow in mythology (and superstition), or explain behavior such as the macaw's consumption of clay. All volumes contain a set index with common name and volume in bold type and main entry pages underlined. Species such as parrots appear in more than one volume but see-also references will alert readers to other entries. Although it is not all-inclusive (250 characteristic species are included), this attractive resource is very accessible, with an equal balance of text and illustration. It will serve students and browsers well.-Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.