From School Library Journal
Grade 4-6-A broad overview of life forms on our planet and the forces that threaten their survival. Topics such as food chains, ecosystems, plant and animal defenses, pollution, extinction, and conservation are succinctly and clearly covered. Excellent-quality, full-color, captioned photographs and diagrams complement the text, adding information and reinforcing the theories presented. Scott sprinkles examples throughout his discussions, making the scientific principles more accessible to those unfamiliar with the topic. Shaded sidebars provide additional facts, experiments, or relevant trivia. The careful balance among all life forms (plant, sea, animal, insect, etc.) and a conscientious attempt to cover all ecosystems in a evenhanded manner is evident. The author's enthusiastic tone adds to the presentation. Terms are occasionally defined within the text; however, a 70+ word glossary is complete with suggestions to compare one definition with another (e.g., broad leaves, compare conifers). Cross-references are included for major theories mentioned. A thorough index and well-organized chapters make the book useful for reference, but the upbeat language and attractive format will encourage browsing. A comprehensive and well-rounded volume that is far superior to Ecology (DK, 1993).
Olga Kuharets, New York Public LibraryCopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Review
"A detailed, well-organized text discusses the interactions among various life forms and their specific habitats. In three sections, the book covers plant and animal survival strategies, the different ecosystems on earth, and the problems of pollution and conservation."--
The Horn Book Guide"A broad overview of life forms on our planet and the forces that threaten their survival.... Excellent quality, full-color, captioned photographs and diagrams complement the text, adding information and reinforcing the theories presented.... The upbeat language and attractive format will encourage browsing. A comprehensive and well-rounded volume."--
School Library Journal"Expect heavy use for these well-written, attractive books in the Young Oxford series.... Well worth the price."--
Booklist"A tremendous step in the direction of understanding ecology and how the human system fits into ecosystems... Written in simple language and beautifully illustrated with colorful photographs and diagrams, this is an indispensable book for anyone aged 10 through adult."--
Cite AB"Accessible and very practical... The text is accurate and concise, includes much valuable information, and invites further reading. The photographs are outstanding and are accompanied by clear explanations.... Buy one for reference and one to circulate."--
VOYA"Although the concepts are sophisticated, the language is relatively basic and accessible. This book covers all major aspects of ecology, including how plants and animals are designed to survive, how both rely on natural resources around them, and how plants and animals are interdependent... In addition to the informative text, the book is loaded with photographs, diagrams, and maps."--
Science Scope (NSTA)"Explains food webs, migration, and the formation and interaction of ecological systems around the world.... An exceptionally brilliant, detailed, yet clear explanation."--
Children's Bookwatch
