The differences between a frog and a toad are subtle, but they are there. Readers will learn the ways in which these two amphibians are alike and different. Full-color photographs enhance and support the informative text.
April 1, 2013
Gr 3-5-Children who have ever wondered how to differentiate between similar species should start with this series. Each title begins with an explanation of scientific classification, which can be a bit technical. (A chart would have been helpful.) Through describing the anatomy, diet, habitat, and life cycle of each species, the texts show how they are alike and not. A handy table midway through every volume makes comparison between creatures easy. The glossaries define most unfamiliar terms; however, some, such as "binocular vision" and "deciduous," are not included. The large, color photos are captioned, though in one apparent error, a caption in Bee shows a wasps' nest but notes that "Soon adult bees will come out." These titles are best suited for readers who want to learn about both subjects since it would be difficult to separate the information to report on one creature.
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