Forest Animals. (Who Lives Here?) Deborah Hodge. Illustrated by Pat Stephens. Toronto, ON: Kids Can Press, 2009. 24 pp., pbk. & hc., $5.95 (pbk.), $14.95 (hc.). ISBN 978-1-55453-071-7 (pbk.), ISBN 978-1-55453-070-0 (hc.). Subject Heading: Forest animals- Juvenile literature. Preschool-grade 2 / Ages 4-7. Review by Rosemary Hollett. ***/4

excerpt:

In winter, wood frogs sleep under leaves or logs. Their bodies freeze like ice cubes! The frogs wake up in spring.

Forest Animals is the fifth volume in the “Who Lives Here?” series by award-winning author Deborah Hodge. Other titles include polar animals, rainforest animals, desert animals and wetland animals.


     This particular title takes a brief look at how animals’ bodies and habitats are suited to life in the northern forest. Readers will learn what forest animals eat, the ways they stay safe and warm and how they care for their young.


     The book’s format follows a familiar layout. There is a brief description of this particular habitat followed by a double page spread for each of nine animals. The full-coloured illustrations by artist Pat Stephens aptly portray the characteristics of that animal and are accompanied by general information on the left hand page. On the right are more illustrations and three interesting facts explaining how each body is built for living among the trees in cold weather. Did you know, for example, that……?

A wolverine’s jaws are strong enough to crush bones and chew up frozen meat. Crunch!


     Forest Animals is a simple introduction to the boreal forest and the creatures readers will find living there. Given that children study habitats throughout early and middle years, this book offers a lovely starting point for the young student.


     A table of contents, animal words and a note for parents and teachers are also included at the beginning and end of the book.


     The charming illustrations, simple text and intriguing facts make Forest Animals a great read for the intended audience.

Recommended.

Rosemary Hollett may be found in the library of St. Emile School in Winnipeg, MB.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

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