Pond Water Zoo: An Introduction to Microscopic Life
Grade 5-8.  This utilitarian book catalogs the varieties of microscopic life in ponds and streams and offers instructions on collecting and studying samples. An introduction to the five kingdoms and microscopic life in general is followed by descriptions of Monera, Protista, and a variety of microscopic animals. Similar species are grouped together, but the text is weak on pointing out similarities and making comparisons that would help readers keep the data sorted out. There are also sensationalized statements that need more clarification. For example, the author claims that, "90 percent of the average human being is made up of bacteria;" it is not clear what this figure is based on. The explanation of the sizes of these species is muddy, too. Although Loewer explains how long a micron is in comparison to an inch, some organisms are described in terms of microns and others in terms of millimeters but how many microns are in a millimeter is never made clear. The book's strength is its instructions for collecting and studying these creatures; it explains getting samples, using microscopes, and what to look for. Some of the tasks will need adult supervision, but the information could be useful to students who need ideas for biology-based science projects. Excellent drawings complement the text, providing close-up views of the life forms described. The end result is mixed, with the book's appeal limited by its somewhat dull and sometimes vague text.?Jeffrey A. French, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public LibraryCopyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.