I
don’t usually review books here on Celebrate Science, but today I’m going to
make an exception. Anyone who reads this blog regularly knows that I am a huge
fan of books by Steve Jenkins, and I can’t help but gush over what is now my favorite
of all—The Animal Book.

This is a book I wish I had been handed as a child, and I have no doubt it will
inspire a whole new generation of professional scientists and amateur naturalists.
Combining art and ideas from a half dozen or so of his past titles with lots of
brand new content, Jenkins has created a magnum opus that puts the animal
kingdom in context for kids. The result is a clearly presented, visually
dynamic overview that is sure to fascinate curious young minds.

Topics
range from animal families and animal senses to extreme animals and animal
defense strategies. Perhaps most importantly, Jenkins does an excellent job of putting
the evolution of life on Earth in perspective for young readers.

I know
there are children out there that will spend hours happily poring over this beautiful
crafted, informative book. So please buy this book and put it in their hands.