Box Turtle at Long Pond

This is a wonderfully told story about a day in the life of a box turtle. The illustrations rival Jim Arnosky's paintings, and facts about the animal are presented in a narrative way: "He carefully stretches out his neck to drink. Box turtles cannot swim." The turtle even has a bit of excitement and danger when he meets a raccoon who fails to eat him because he is in his shell, but who steals all the worms he has found. It is unusual to find a story about an animal that contains this much naturalistic detail. On reading it I found myself wishing I had read it before adopting a turtle as a child.

Box Turtle at Long Pond is a rarity among children's books - it contains accurate information! It is very refreshing to read a book to children that portrays wildlife in a natural setting rather than wearing clothes, driving cars, etc. Bravo to the authors for combining their artistic and creative talents to create such a treasure. If only other authors would follow in their example. (This book also contains beautiful illustrations!)