Review by Booklist Review
Nature Study Guild, longtime publisher of small books on single, narrow subjects, has combined five of their works into one useful and interesting book. Chapters cover trees; flowers, fruits, and ferns; mammals and birds; the ocean; and "the Night Sky," each giving readers tools for identification and appreciation of their surroundings. The line drawings, maps, and graphs perfectly depict the subject of each chapter. The detail is wonderful: identifying the sunflower family is 11 pages long with simple methods of definition. Animals and birds are identified by prints and droppings. The Night Sky names the constellations from the mythology of several different cultures. All other subjects are given equally specific coverage. Of course, not every type and species can be included, but what is here is well chosen and complete. Nature Study Guild's small books can be easily carried on a hike, but this larger compilation is a good choice for armchair explorers or any nature collection.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
Known for its charmingly illustrated guide books, the Nature Study Guild returns with a new volume which will assist nature lovers in decoding the stories of the natural world. This sturdy book is not too thick and comes in a 6.5-by-10-inch trim size, making it convenient for explorers to carry with them out into the world. The book is divided into five overarching sections: "Trees," "Flowers, Fruits, and Ferns," "Mammals and Birds," "The Ocean," and "The Night Sky." Within each is background information and, most importantly, flowcharts that help the reader to identify what they are looking at and the significance of their find. The vintage illustrations include labels to help differentiate features and functions of flora and fauna in various regions of North America. The text and illustrations combined helpfully delineate and illustrate the differences between similar species, imparting confidence in the novice nature explorer. VERDICT This affordable, compact, and user-friendly guide is best suited for public library collections. Perfect for casual explorers, seasoned hikers, and students alike.--Laura Trombley
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