From School Library Journal
Gr 3-5-This fine book about the ways plants survive in their various habitats is both creative and inviting. The short chapters discuss fitting into the environment; getting sun, water, and food; inherent defenses; and propagating. Readers are encouraged to think about these topics by way of a series of questions. For example, the author states that through transpiration, "A tree can lose hundreds of gallons of water a day. With all that water going out, more needs to come in. What's this plant's adaptation?" A color photograph shows a tree seedling; when the page is turned, the photograph is repeated, the tree identified, and a short description of water absorption through the roots is given. Two other illustrated examples of plants absorbing water appear on the same page. Plants from many parts of the world are represented, but their countries are not identified. This presentation may inspire readers to continue questioning and to go on to other books and resources to satisfy their curiosity.
Carolyn Jenks, First Parish Unitarian Church, Portland, ME
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Gr. 2-4. Goodman reveals a variety of ways plants adapt to their environment in order to survive. She has divided the book into six sections, each section focusing on one or more adaptations. The format encourages interaction and prediction on the reader's part by providing clues in text and pictures, and then presenting the question, "What's this plant's adaptation?" The answer appears on the next page, along with three examples of specific plants that have developed that adaptation. The text is clearly and concisely written, and Doolittle's color photography is outstanding. Since the book shows adaptations for a variety of climates and landscapes, it will be good preparation for a nature walk (with sketch pads) during which children can find their own plant adaptations or look for examples from the book. Lauren Peterson
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
