A Walk in the Boreal Forest
Gr 2-5-A fine overview of the plant and animal life of the boreal forest. A map of North America early in the book delineates the location of this biome, which stretches across much of Canada and dips into limited areas of the northern United States. Johnson explains the interrelated nature of life in any biome and introduces a variety of birds and other animals that live together in this one. Excellent full-color photographs capture the beauty of the huge spruce, pine, and other trees as well as smaller plants. Close-ups of animals from tiny deer mice to the rapacious wolverine accompany brief introductions to many forest inhabitants. The author also discusses the climate, particularly how various animals deal with the lengthy winter. Fact boxes with sketches are well placed and do not detract from the book's pleasing arrangement of text and visual information. A well-crafted introduction to an area little explored in children's books.-Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, MankatoCopyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to theLibrary Bindingedition.