Mysteries & Marvels of Nature (Int-Linked)

The updated version of Usborne's popular Mysteries and Marvels of Nature has been reorganized, has traded in many of its detailed illustrations for eye-catching full-color photos, and now also features internet links where readers can see nature in action. While the original version organized its six chapters around different species, such as "Ocean Life," "Plant Life," and "Bird Life," the updated version focuses on particular life science topics, such as feeding, movement, communication, and relationships, and examines each topic through each group of organisms. For example, under "Feeding," readers flip through the section to see how (carnivorous) plants, fish, reptiles, birds, mammals and insects all find or capture the food they need to survive. While this approach makes it more difficult to see each aspect of a group of organisms side-by-side, it does make for interesting comparison with other groups of organisms. In general, I would say that there is a little less text in this version than in the older one, since more page space is occupied by the photographs. Some animal examples used are similar to the ones in the original book, but plenty of new material has been included as well. One other small difference here is the lack of the "True or False" quiz questions scattered throughout the original version. Instead, with this version (and internet access) readers can listen to humpback whales sing, find out what the world looks like to a bee, and go on a safari in the Kalahari Desert by visiting the suggested internet links. I'd venture to guess this one would hold the attention of young readers longer, with its abundance of huge, sharp, dramatic animal photos to enjoy! 128 pgs, hc. - Jess