Biggest, Strongest, Fastest

K-Gr 2--Large, clear print; fascinating facts; and beautiful, detailed, cut-paper collages make this excellent title a delight. One main fact is presented per spread about each of 14 animals, e.g., "The Etruscan shrew, the world's smallest mammal, could sleep in a teaspoon." Two more relevant facts are given in smaller print. Silhouette drawings show comparative sizes--the blue whale is shown next to an adult human. The realistic, inventive, textured illustrations, mostly double spreads, flow smoothly from page to page. A helpful chart at the end contains further information about each creature, such as diet and habitat. An all-round superlative effort.--Jan Shepherd Ross, Dixie Elementary Magnet School, Lexington, KY

"Here's proof that power isn't just about size and that science can be a lot of fun." Booklist, ALA, Starred Review