A Platypus, Probably

by Sneed Collard

Book Review

School Library Journal :

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K-Gr 2–A simple text in a large font describes the history and lifestyle of that problematic assortment of body parts known as the platypus. Paragraphs in smaller print give additional data to satisfy enquiring minds. Physiology, diet, mating, egg-laying, and raising young are among the topics covered in this attractive work, illustrated with realistic acrylic gouache spreads. While similar in scope to Pauline Reilly's Platypus (S & S, 1994), Collard's inviting, informative book on a unique animal is worthy of a place on your shelves.–Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

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K-Gr. 3. This informational picture book introduces the platypus, which lives only in Australia, and describes the physical characteristics and behaviors of this unusual animal. Comparing its appearance in water to that of a lizard and a beaver, Collard explains that the platypus is a toothless, egg-bearing mammal that lives in and around streams, burrows in the earth for a safe place to sleep and bear young, and finds its food by sensing electricity in the bodies of its animal prey. The main text, in large type, includes the everyday experiences of a female platypus that mates and raises her young, while text in smaller typeface offers added facts. Richly detailed and atmospheric, the acrylic-and-gouache paintings illustrate the text with many large-scale, horizontal spreads. On the last page, the author discusses efforts to save the platypus and other monotremes by restoring their habitats. A glossary and one Web site are appended.
CarolynPhelan.

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