Animal Babies by Jennifer Schofield

Animal Babies in Ponds and Rivers by Jennifer Schofield

Geared Towards: Ages 4-8

Published By: Kingfisher

Publication Date: April 2007

ISBN-13: 978-0753460597

Animal Babies in Rain Forests by Jennifer Schofield

Geared Towards: Ages 4-8

Published By: Kingfisher

Publication Date: April 2007

ISBN-13: 978-0753460603

Both of these short hardbacks are absolutely perfect for any little kid. With several incredibly clear and upclose animal photographs, budding readers will enjoy the visual entertainment as much if not more than the literary side. Designed to encourage readers to actively participate in the reading process, each page's text tells a short snippet about the upcoming animal and asks the reader to use the clue to guess what animal will be next. For example: "When I'm hungry I plunge my head under the water to look for my food. Who is my mommy?"

My daughters and I enjoyed these books because they really were fun to read. The animal pictures were bright and interesting, and I loved that the book reinforced information they already knew about the animals or even taught them some new things. The text was short and simple, and that made the game factor fun without being overwhelming for my 3 year old.

I do have to say, that I don't think the age listing is accurate on these books. Listed at 4-8 years, I truly think the publisher missed the mark. It's my opinion that the younger kids (think even baby age) would totally get in to these because of the visual stimulation, and the flow of the text. If they're the hardback then you wouldn't set a baby loose with them if you didn't want them chewed on and torn up, but they'd be perfect for cuddling up together with at storytime. Not to mention I think most 8 year olds would probably be bored by the books because while they'd enjoy the pictures I think the text would just be too simple.

OUR RATING: 5 Hearts