(4) K-3 Starting Life series. Illustrated by Simon Mendez. Pages cut progressively wider and marked for easy reference follow the development of ladybugs from egg to larva to pupa to adult. The basic information is here, but the captioned labels and text compete for attention within spreads containing realistic illustrations of the meadow setting. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn

(4) K-3 Starting Life series. Illustrated by Simon Mendez. Pages cut progressively wider and marked for easy reference follow the development of crocodiles from egg to hatchling to juvenile to adult. The basic information is here, but the captioned labels and text compete for attention within spreads containing realistic illustrations of the mangrove swamp setting. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn

(3) K-3 Starting Life series. Illustrated by Simon Mendez. The life cycle of an apple tree, from a seed to bearing fruit, is straightforwardly discussed; sophisticated readers can learn from the ancillary information presented in smaller font throughout. The colorful illustrations resemble nature photos, but there are enough visual treats--extreme close-ups of bugs, glimpses of worms under the soil--to attract the attention of non-nature enthusiasts. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram

(3) K-3 Starting Life series. Illustrated by Simon Mendez. The life cycle of a mallard, from egg to adult, is lucidly discussed; sophisticated readers can learn from the ancillary information presented in smaller font throughout. The colorful illustrations resemble nature photos, but enough liberties are taken--we see what's inside the egg, what's beneath the water's surface--to attract the attention of non-nature enthusiasts. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Nell Beram