Grades 3-6. Part field guide and part high-interest nonfiction, this book encourages young readers to be naturalists no matter where they live. The introductory pages explain how to responsibly collect specimens and how to record findings in a scientific journal. Common tools of a naturalist are mentioned and are easily accessible around the house. Suggestions for investigation are divided into four chapters by season and include a wide variety of ecosystems, from dense woodlands to urban sidewalks. Field guide–quality illustrations with common and Latin names for vegetation, insects, and animals fill the pages, and fun tidbits about common species are listed alongside. A “Naturalists at Work” feature explains specific careers that employ the skills of naturalists, including their education and job responsibilities. Seasonal scavenger hunts and nature challenge activities provide plenty of opportunity to practice newly honed research skills. Through beautifully rendered scientific illustrations and fun activities, this book nurtures respectful and thoughtful observers of their surroundings in both city and country.
This addition to the BBG Guides for a Green Planet series walks readers through the basics of becoming a naturalist. Divided by season, the chapters introduce a variety of ecosystems, such as the beach, woods, city, and meadow. Nature-themed activities appear alongside guides to the flora and fauna of the regions, scavenger hunts, naturalist careers, and introductions to concepts like symbiotic relationships, all of which encourage readers to observe the intricacies of the natural world. Despite the projects New York City origins, readers from just about any geographical location will be able to find information for identifying local wildlife. Ages 8-12. (Aug.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
Gr 3-6-This appealing, textbook-style introduction to nature is broken down by season. The title begins with some general information about ways in which naturalists observe nature, suggestions for keeping a journal, and places to explore. The sections are subdivided by habitat (ponds, meadows, beaches, lakes), and there's also an emphasis on ways to explore plant and wildlife in urban areas. The author covers a wide variety of topics that highlight seasonal changes. For instance, the section on "Winter" deals with "Life Under Ice," while "Autumn" discusses "Leaf Color." Page-long job descriptions scattered throughout delve into skills and interests needed for various nature-related occupations (horticulturist, taxonomist, botanical illustrator, and others). "Nature Activities," such as "Make Your Own Bug Spray" and "Build a Boat That Stays Afloat" using only materials readers can find at their feet, make learning fun. "Tips for Adult Caregivers" are also included. Illustrations vary from full-page scenes of different habitats (labeled with names of the plant and animal species) to smaller photographs and drawings of nature items-seed pods, leaves in fall colors, fungi, bee varieties. The lessons and activities here will motivate many readers to explore further.-Susan Scheps, formerly at Shaker Public Library, OH (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.