Deserts inside out

Arid desert biomes account for about one-fifth of the earth's surface, and this entry in the Ecosystems Inside Out series highlights how these delicate ecosystems function and showcases 10 major deserts as examples. On each double-page spread, readers will find one full-bleed photo of a desert landscape from each location, as well as inset Eco Up Close boxes describing a notable animal and its role in the ecosystem. Though some readers may be disappointed that so few of the animals and plants mentioned in the text are actually pictured, the sheer number of life forms mentioned goes a long way to dispel the idea that deserts are barren wastelands. The even-handed tone, dynamic page layouts, extensive glossary, and concise writing make this an engaging and informative resource.--Hunter, Sarah Copyright 2014 Booklist

Gr 4-6-Informative and picturesque, this comprehensive series takes readers on a tour of Earth's six major biomes, exploring their distinctive characteristics as well as the unique creatures who have made each habitat their home. Key words are highlighted via bold font and are defined in the extensive glossary while sidebars, including "Eco Up Close," which focuses on one particular inhabitant per location, provides students with a greater understanding of each environment's interdependent relationship between living and nonliving organisms. Activities and activism also play a part in the volumes, as students are encouraged to consider how ecosystems work, how they can be affected by change, and what they can do to protect these fragile systems. The lush photos of locations worldwide may inspire further investigation of the topic. Great selections. (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.