Dolphins (Smithsonian) - Hardcover

Grade 2–5—Partnering with the Smithsonian Institution, the noted science writer captures readers' attention immediately as he describes the "clever, curious, and mischievous" dolphins that seem to be unafraid of humans. He admits that there really isn't that much difference between dolphins and porpoises and reveals the way to tell them apart—"dolphins often swim on or just below the surface, riding the bow waves of fishing boats." The brightly colored photographs take up one side (or more) of each spread, and the accompanying text balances descriptions of the characteristics of the animals with the threats posed to their survival in today's world. A half-page glossary defines a range of terms, including the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 that complements the environmental information included in the text. The index leads readers to discussions of such terms as "beached dolphin," "red tide," "pollution," and "commercial fishing," as well as "aunties" (female dolphins other than the mother who help raise babies), "dominance," and "prey." Simply outstanding.—Frances E. Millhouser, formerly at Chantilly Regional Library, Fairfax County, VA
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