Publisher Description

Imagine a worm that spits glue, a rat with vampire teeth, and a frog you can see through! These are just some of the amazing animals that were recently discovered by scientists. Readers learn about these fascinating creatures and many more through carefully-leveled, engaging books reviewed by Smithsonian experts.

Author Biography

Tamra Orr is a full-time author living in the Pacific Northwest. She is the author of more than 400 educational books for readers of all ages. Her book on school violence was voted New York Public Library's best nonfiction book for teens. She has a degree in English/Education from Ball State University. Tamra has been fascinated with history all of her life and enjoys the chance to learn more about it when researching for a book. She lives in Oregon with her husband, four children, dog, and cat.

Table of Contents

Time and patience -- Fantastic frogs -- Many monkeys -- The olinguito -- The rinjani scops owl -- The hog-nosed rat -- The first eel -- The ghost ant -- The Cambodian tailorbird -- Peacock spiders -- A spiny wasp -- Glossary -- Read more -- Critical thinking questions -- Internet sites -- Index.

Review

Focusing on new species that are named each year, this series describes not only the unique new creatures themselves, but also the unique way each species was discovered. . . .Budding scientists will be thrilled to learn about these newly discovered species, making this series a novel new addition to any library collection.-- "School Library Connections"
These books are written in partnership with the Smithsonian and contain excellent photos and information. Quotes from leading scientists and researchers add to the details provided, and even more facts appear in text boxes on many of the pages. . . .Whether patrons are fascinated by nanobots or underwater volcanoes, there are plenty of new discoveries to feed their curiosity. A good series for fact-hungry kids.-- "School Library Journal, Series Made Simple"
This series is a great choice for students with an interest in science or for readers with an interest in reading non-fiction titles filled with unique informational tidbits and facts. A worthwhile addition for elementary collections.-- "PSLA Teaching and Learning - Literature Review"

Review Quote

This series is a great choice for students with an interest in science or for readers with an interest in reading non-fiction titles filled with unique informational tidbits and facts. A worthwhile addition for elementary collections.

Promotional "Headline"

books reviewed by Smithsonian experts; information provided in multiple ways to encourage learning, including main text, bold and colorful images, separate facts, sidebars, and graphic organizers; expert quotes; critical thinking questions to promote discussion; carefully written text based on grade level content and reading levels

Feature

Caption(s), Chart(s)/Table(s), Discussion Questions, Fact box(es), Full color, Glossary, Index, Map(s), More Resources/Suggestions for Further Reading, Photograph(s), Safe websites at FactHound.com, Sidebar(s), Table of Contents, Timeline(s)

Details