Iguanas
From the Set Spot Rainforest Animals
Iguanas--large lizards with even larger tails. Developing readers learn about these big reptiles in this low-level search-and-find beginning reader. Iguanas are colorful creatures that blend in with their rainforest environment. They use their large tails to ward off attackers. Early readers will discover key characteristics of this reptile.
A search-and-find feature reinforces new vocabulary like spikes and dewlaps, while close-up images of iguanas in their natural rainforest habitat captivate young audiences. A great early STEM book to inspire learning about life science for kindergartners and first graders.
SLJ Review of Spot Rainforest Animals
This companion to the “Spot Nature” series by the same publisher follows an identical format. Brief volumes open with a challenge to students to locate four pictures and their corresponding words. In this series, students are asked to find an animal’s body part or something notable about its habitat or lifestyle. Hints and visual clues guide readers to find the objects, with plenty of opportunities for review. Most feature simple sentences, including an exclamatory sentence to stimulate dramatic interest, e.g., “Wow. That snake is huge!” (Anacondas). The text includes common sight words and short- and long-vowel sounds. The series covers a broad range of rainforest creatures, whose habits, habitats, body parts, and lifestyles are explored and explained. The remarkable color photos, whose focus is frequently on the creatures’ habits and lifestyles, are sure to captivate students. VERDICT Recommended for schools and public libraries to promote STEM learning for young students. Hand to animal lovers who’ll learn a lot about some favorite creatures, and meet some new ones, too.