Slinky, Scaly, Slithery Snakes
Grade 2-5-The sinuous bodies of snakes are highlighted in vivid paintings that dominate every page of this introductory title. Short paragraphs of text are set against various color backgrounds, often encircled by the loosely coiled bodies of various species. The text describes the physical and behavioral characteristics common to all snakes, and some special characteristics of individual species. The last page lists the reptiles in order of appearance, and identifies them by common and scientific names. The book is clearly written and well organized, but not all scientific terms are defined within the text. The paintings are realistically rendered but the colors are often more intense than they would be in nature. Also, many of the illustrations are close-ups, making most of the species appear to be of roughly the same size, which is misleading. A world map shows the geographical distribution of 20 of the snakes featured in the book. Patricia Lauber's Snakes Are Hunters (HarperCollins, 1988), which is aimed at roughly the same audience, has similar information but is illustrated with cartoon drawings. Patent's book offers more information on senses and defense mechanisms and has more realistic illustrations. Young herpetologists should find Slinky, Scaly, Slithery Snakes very satisfying.Karey Wehner, San Francisco Public LibraryCopyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.