independent reading level: 1-5

A good introduction to the dangerous impact climate change is having upon a wide range of animal species. ( )

Our world's climate is rapidly changing. Global warming is not only effecting us but also the animals and other small creatures that share our planet. The environmental changes are so great that some creatures are gone all together. In 1964 a biologist working in Costa Rica found a tiny yellow toad that thrived and laid eggs in pools of water. As the earth warmed the puddles dried and since 1989 the toads have not been seen anywhere. As the world gets warmer animals move to find new places to live, but plants can not, in some instances plant seeds are carried off to other locations by wind, water and animals. In Yosemite National Park squirrels and mice are moving to higher ground to more favorable habitats. Small shrimp-like animals called Krill feed on algae and other small organisms under the ice. With less ice Krill don't survive and neither will the animals that feed on them. As the world warms so do the earths waters. As a result, spring comes earlier and winter later. This season change can create droughts and effects corals, fish and many other species. Arnold introduces young readers to the world of global warming and its effects on humans, animals and plants. Soft pastel illustrations are warm and inviting for young readers to see the specific plants and animals and better understand their plight. Arnold has also supplied young minds with a glossary of terms in the back of the book as well as a list of website resources and others books that cover the subjects of climate changes and global warming. This is an excellent book to educate children on global warming. Parent and teachers will find this to be a handy tool for any home or classroom. ( )

Grades: 2-5
Theme:Climate change and it's effects.