Cactus Desert (One Small Square)

Rating:
Summary: Both interesting and informative
Review: I reviewed this book for The Home School Manual =============================

One Small Square One Small Square, Cactus Desert "Whew! It's hot: 115°F (46°C), and the temperature is still climbing. . . . Welcome to cactus country. Home of rattlesnakes and roadrunners, yuccas and chuckwallas. . . . In this desert you will discover animals that never take a drink of water and plants that double as 'apartment houses.' . . ." On turning the page we are told that exploring offers many surprises, but to be prepared in case one of the surprises happens to be a scorpion or another dangerous creature.

The words, "small square," emphasize the idea that careful observation, even in a small space, yields a wealth of interesting information. And the book itself is square (9" X 9"). You are shown life under the ground as well as above it. Notes in the illustrations point out interesting facts, and each chapter of two or more pages deals with a general topic like protection from the heat, dangers in the night, or how certain plants and animals take quick advantage of a rare rainfall. One chapter near the end explains that some deserts (including Antarctica) are cold. Names are given for all the plants and creatures shown. Studying this book is, in some ways, even better than visiting the desert itself. The book offers good science and would even make a great gift.

One of a series of Small Square books by Donald M. Silver. This one is illustrated by Patricia J. Wynne. For readers 7 to 12 (as if adults wouldn't have fun learning all these things, too). Hardcover, 48 pp. Was $14.95. 1995, from another publisher.