Flashy, Fantastic Rain Forest Frogs - Softcover

Patent (Prairies, 1996, etc.) describes the unusual adaptations of many types of tree frogs, including those that live on the forest floor and others that never venture to the ground, gliding between branches on webbed feet. She covers poisonous frogs as well as unusual mating and egg-laying practices; while the text is compelling, so much information is provided it is sometimes difficult to follow. Instead of describing one type of frog at a time--its appearance, life cycle, habitat--Patent discusses the adaptations of many different species to one topic: diet, camouflage, etc. Vibrantly colored, intensively active, the double-page spreads of rain- forest frogs by newcomer Jubb captivate viewers; as many as 20 animals are displayed in a single painting. Waldo fans will enjoy the hunt even as they long for a key to identify the species of plants and animals. So much is happening in the paintings it is hard to focus on the text, usually tucked away on a leaf. Endpapers give a map of the world with rain forests indicated and locations for a few of the species discussed. While the book is without scientific names, sizes, and range information, and is not conventionally organized, it's a beautiful and concise look at a surprisingly varied subject. (index) (Picture book/nonfiction. 7-12) -- Copyright ©1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Grade 1-4. Although many books on tropical rain forests include information about tree frogs, none concentrates on these animals to the extent that Patent does here. She discusses rain-forest ecology and how it affects the lives of the small creatures, but her primary focus is on the frogs themselves. The author notes the similarities and differences in their life cycles, especially the ways they produce their young. Patent mentions the poisonous properties of some frogs and notes the use of the poison both by native hunters and by scientists developing medicines. She also mentions the endangered status of frogs in some parts of the world. Maps indicate the regions where various creatures live. Jubb's illustrations are colorful but somewhat overcrowded. Although the approach emphasizes the abundant plant and animal life of the tropical rain forest, it makes focusing on the frogs themselves difficult at times. Also, the pictures don't convey effectively the size differences noted in the text. Still, they do an adequate job of holding children's attention. The material is interesting enough to draw a wider audience than just students doing reports.?Kathy Piehl, Mankato State University, MN
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.