The Frog Book

Gr 1-5--Arresting illustrations and informative text offer a fascinating introduction to the world of frogs. With more than 5,500 species, these amphibians can be found on every continent but Antarctica. In addition to spreads explaining the complex process of metamorphosis and a frog's basic body structure, the book includes examples of species of many colors, shapes, and sizes. The authors explore unusual ways frogs attract mates, help their offspring survive, and defend themselves from enemies, and explain where they live and what they eat. Frog eyes draw readers' gaze to the pages, the colors and patterns of the collage illustrations demanding attention. Small silhouettes help visualize the relative size of various species large and small through, for instance, an image comparing a frog to an adult's hand. As in Jenkins's acclaimed The Beetle Book, the compelling graphic design, hand-lettered text, and multiple images on oversize pages effectively present the surprising diversity of the small creatures. The book ends on a somber note about current threats of extinction to many species. A helpful chart provides data about the size, diet, and location of each frog pictured. VERDICT Eye-catching visuals and intriguing material make this overview of all things frog a first-rate choice.--Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University Library, Mankato