Animal Aviators: Masters of Flight (Single Title: Science) (Library Binding)

by Eve H. Iversen (Author)

Editorial Reviews

School Library Journal
Grades 5-8--This well-written, in-depth exploration of animal flight is marred by inadequate illustrations. Animals that glide, soar, and fly are introduced; detailed explanations of how they take off, stay aloft, maneuver in the air, and land are enhanced by descriptions of the physiology necessary for flight. Chapters on migration and air travel by humans round out the volume. Iversen's obvious fascination with the subject is evident. Unfortunately, her fine writing is not supported with sufficient or attractive illustrations. Black-and-white photos and sketches are small and generally lacking in detail. The few color photos are relegated to two inset sections, far from where they would be useful. Photos or drawings of the Malaysian flying snake, phalangers, and other unfamiliar creatures would have been helpful in understanding the text. Even the three thoughtful projects suggested at the end of the book are difficult to visualize without sketches. It's a shame that only the most determined readers will tackle what could have been a definitive book on the topic for this audience.
Ellen Heath, Orchard School, Ridgewood, NJ
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc

From Booklist
Gr. 4-7. In their quest to fly, humans have long studied nature's fliers, particularly birds, bats, and insects. Iversen provides an in-depth look at aerodynamics in the animal world, and discusses how humans observed and used the principles in their aviation attempts and successes, from Leonardo da Vinci's diagrams to high-tech jets. Topics include gliders, such as flying squirrels and fish; true powered flight; migration; and an overview of human aviation history. The straightforward prose can be scholarly and dense, and the scientific principles challenging. However, technical information is often accompanied by diagrams, photos, or sidebars of related activities that clarify things. Overall, readers will find a wealth of information and interesting facts about aviators, animal and human. Two full-color photo sections portray wildlife and diverse human flight vehicles. Includes glossary; three science projects; selected bibliography, videos, organizations, and Web sites. Shelle Rosenfeld
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Library Binding: 112 pages
• Publisher: Franklin Watts (March 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0531117499
• ISBN-13: 978-0531117491
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 7.8 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.7 ounces
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• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #4,831,835 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)
  
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