Marsupials

Animal lovers will appreciate this series that highlights familiar and lesser-known marsupials. Simple language, brief sentences—sometimes, only a word or phrase—and humor facilitate comfortable, reading.

Students will gain practice reading words with short- and long-vowel sounds. Each volume provides basic information about the marsupials’ homes, body parts, diets, mobility, sleep habits, social groupings, offspring, and more. Some volumes facilitate “personal engagement” between students and marsupials with textual exchanges or by asking students questions about the animals.

Excellent photos across spreads show the animals in action, some with spectacular close-up views. Some photos include labels with arrows pointing to particular details, which aid in students’ vocabulary comprehension. The Tasmanian devil volume includes a map of Tasmania and Australia, directing attention to its home. Back matter includes a picture glossary, an index, and a link to the publisher’s website to find out more.

VERDICT: Easy, engaging nonfiction that will capture young students’ interest. Recom-mended for schools and public libraries.