Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 2-4-These two volumes are similar in format but vary in how well they achieve their goals. They both feature a brief introduction to the subject, how to select the right pet, and how to care for it, all the while making recommendations about how to bring parents onboard (and also warning about what will upset them). Horses is more clearly written and better organized than Bunny, which tends to meander. The glossary for Horse does not include all of the equestrian terms used in the book, offering definitions for "hunter-gatherers" and "civilization," but not for such fundamental terms as "filly" or "dressage," although they are defined in the text. But the biggest incongruity of the books is that they are described as "nonfiction chapter books for the beginning reader" yet are really beyond the ability of most beginning readers. While the page counts are low, the grammar, vocabulary, and tone are consistent with books for readers who have moved past the beginning stage. So while each title has something to recommend it (Bunny provides a handy care guide in the final chapter, and Horse offers practical recommendations for being around the animals even if readers cannot own one), it also has some drawbacks.-Kara Schaff Dean, Walpole Public Library, MA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
