Gr 3–5—Unlike most animal battle books, this set pairs creatures that actually meet in the wild. A short first chapter describes the two animals moving toward interaction, with photos of each and a brief list of statistics. The longer middle chapter lays out the qualities that might help each creature, such as size, speed, and teeth. Defensive features like disguise and sense of smell are also noted, as are the weaknesses that might impact the battle. While most of the information relates to the conflict, occasional fact boxes add extra data about other topics, such as mating and habitat. The organized layout consistently puts each animal on the same side of the spreads, with facts and a photograph. Most chapters include a photo spread showing both animals interacting; the final chapter describes the actual battle. VERDICT Successfully combines the appeal of animal battles with real-life examples of predation.

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