Nonfiction Monday - A Rainbow of Animals

B had a book fair at her school last week and I was able to attend with just her. What a fun time we had shopping for books. She had already done a preview during school and had a shopping list for us to start with. A Rainbow of Animals by Melissa Stewart was on her original list and I fell in love with it instantly. The photography and use of color is rich, vibrant, and eye candy to any reader. The book begins with a short introduction stating animals come in all shapes and size. They also come in colors of the rainbow. Six colors of animals are explored in sections of this book; red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Each section begins with the question, "Can you think of some (red) animals that live near you?" Some animal examples are provided and there is a pattern for the last few sentences. "(Red) animals live in other parts of the world, too. Let's take a look at some of them."

Each animal has two page spread. On the left you will find a text box with a small paragraph telling you information about each animal and within this text the reader will learn why this animal is the color they are. At the end of each color section, you will find this question, "Where do these (red) animals live?" For each animal, a map of the world and the area they live in is highlighted. The photography on each two page spread is dynamic, up close, shows details, and matches the text perfectly. This book is accessible to our youngest readers and one I think our older students could spend a great deal of time with.

Melissa Stewart is a new author to me but has authored more than 100 books for young readers. She was trained as a scientist and a journalist, which explains how she knew just what to do for this book.

Nonfiction Monday is being held at Picture Book of the Day, thanks for stopping by.