Mandrills

The eye-catching Science behind the Colors series uses pigment and patterns as an inroad into studying some of the animal king- dom’s most curiously colorful creatures. Each title is broken into short chapters, with only a few sentences per page, that explain how each creature’s colors aid in its survival and biological processes.

Cuttlefish presents various types of this mollusk, which can change color and texture in order to camouflage or hunt. Mandrills introduces this west African baboon, its bright rump, and relevant social habits. Parrots flaunts a number of these flamboyant birds and the messages displayed in their feathers, while Rainbow Boas shows how beautiful snakes can be with their prismatic scales.

The text is simple but ef fective, respecting readers enough to introduce terms like pigment, testosterone, and epidermis. Clean, accommodating layouts and an appropriately colorful design make this series quite reader friendly, but the headlining event is unquestionably the engaging, attractive animal photography that fills each book’s pages.

The main text is supported by fact boxes and back matter including a glossary, index, further resources, and illustrative activities that can be done with mostly household items. A solid choice for all collections, sure to please animal lovers while also providing enough specificity to serve as a resource for young researchers.

—Ronny Khuri 

Photographs in this series showcase the colors of various animals in beautiful detail. Easily understood text explains the causes of and reasons for the colors, such as camouflage, mating display, or even as a warning to enemies. Nonfiction features include labels on the photos, “Did You Know?” text boxes that offer extra details, maps, diagrams, and a glossary for helpful terms.

Tips for parents and teachers start each book by suggesting ways to help young readers with their comprehension before, during, and after reading. There is also a hands-on activity that may be done with simple materials from around the house, like coffee filters, markers, or string. And, as with all Jump! titles, readers have access to a curated list of websites through the “FactSurfer” link.

VERDICT These are a recommended purchase for any library; perfect for readers who can’t get enough animal books.