National Wildlife Federation

A coffee table book of wildlife throughout AmericaPhotography ranges from just aboveaverage(in technical and artistic merit) to outstanding with the norm being well above average. text occupies about 30% of the space within the book. Based on the places showcased, the word hideaway refers to anyplace but mostly well known public places.

With bright, vivid photographs and colorful, intriguing pictures cascading across each page, this children’s magazine immerses the young reader (ages 7-12) in the spectacular world of science and inquiry. Each edition is complete with all the major components of a classic periodical, from letters to the editor to featured stories and recurring segments, like the “Ranger Rick’s Adventures” two-page comic, seasonal craft activities, and themed games and puzzles. The substantial text is show more enhanced with boldfaced key words, phonetic descriptions for challenging terms, and definitions of subject-specific vocabulary. In addition, clearly labeled subheadings and a well-organized graphic layout draw attention to the wealth of information that is embedded among the visual displays. Though new readers may struggle with the text itself, a plethora of context clues and detailed imagery compensate for any lack of literary comprehension. The only advertisements included are limited to a single page near the end of the publication and promote kid-friendly educational apps. Published by the non-profit National Wildlife Federation, Ranger Rick effectively fuses education and outright entertainment for children and adults of all ages. show less

There are plenty of concept board books, but this one's cheerful photographs and colored font makes it stand out.

The book contains primarily animal attributes. It begins with small lion cubs contrasted with a big, adult lion. The long and short legs of an egret and puffin, a fast cheetah and slow tortoise, hard crab and soft fox. Then there is one mention of habitat - a bison lives in the cold, a lizard in the heat. Next come actions - animals go up or down, fly or walk, are in or out of the show more water, and ends with awake and asleep.

The photographs are clear and have relatively uncluttered backgrounds. The left page photograph is bordered with a solid color, the right is a full page photo. The book is a 5x5 inch square of sturdy cardboard.

Verdict: This simple concept book would make an excellent addition to, if not a required purchase for, your library's board book selections.

ISBN: 9781623540623; Published 2016 by Charlesbridge; Review copy provided by the publisher for Cybils; Donated to the library show less

I read the April 2014 edition of the Ranger Rick magazine. I remember my little brother receiving this magazine when he was a child, but I didn't realize it was still in print! As Sara mentioned in her lecture, the content of this magazine is solid. The articles are short but interesting, and often broken up by large color photographs that accompany the topic. The language is simple, with catchy headlines to draw reader's attention. There's also interactive elements, such as games or show more contests. The edition I looked in revealed the winners of a recent photo contest. I thought putting the winning photos in print was a great way to encourage children to observe nature more or build photography skills. I think this magazine can be recommended for kids of all ages. Preschool age children may enjoy the large pictures of animals, while early elementary school age children may enjoy the magazine read aloud. Children who can read on their own may also enjoy finding interesting information about animals. show less