Wild And Swampy

Wild and Swampy

From School Library Journal Grade 1-4-An up-close look at swamps and the birds and animals that live in them. Through full-page acrylic paintings, Arnosky depicts raccoons, alligators, and egrets, all of which he has seen in his own expeditions. The artwork is accompanied by text either on the facing page or set in boxes within the illustrations. Small pen-and-ink drawings reminiscent of those found in sketchbooks contribute to the book's personal tone. The narrative consists of the author's memories and reflections along with selective bits of information about the creatures shown in the paintings. The rather poetic text may be somewhat challenging for newly independent readers. However, the story is a simple one, and the descriptive language combines nicely with the attractive pictures, making this a wonderful read-aloud. With a guide as knowledgeable and enthusiastic as Arnosky, youngsters are sure to come away from this tour with a new appreciation for swamps and a desire to do some exploring on their own.Arwen Marshall, formerly at New York Public Library Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc. An acclaimed artist and naturalist describes and portrays the birds, snakes, and other animals that can be seen in a swamp. From Booklist Gr. 3-5, younger for reading aloud. Only Jim Arnosky and his talented pen can make you feel like you've truly missed one of nature's greatest wonders if you've never visited a swamp. Readers will want to pack up and head south after discovering the flora and fauna to be found living among the cypress, spruce, cedar, and mangrove trees. Muted acrylic paintings and pen-and-ink sketches give us a glimpse of a cottonmouth slithering on the ground, a toothy alligator among the hanging Spanish moss, and a close-up look at a steely-eyed pelican making us wonder who's observing whom. Whether it's snakes, raccoons, turtles, or crabs, Arnosky inspires respect and reverence for nature's wildlife. This is a rich, moody journal that works as both a picture book and nature guide. Denia HesterCopyright