I See Animals Hiding

While this 1995 book by Jim Arnosky is now out of print, it can still be found and is well worth the search. As with most of Arnosky's work, this little book deals with animals. In this case, the author addresses the almost magical ability that animals in the wild possess to stay hidden from sight; how their colors match the colors and patterns of the places where they live and protect them...camouflage. The author addresses animals, birds and fish. Each small animal or bird is given a two page spread and each is somewhat hidden in its natural surroundings as portrayed by Arnosky's considerable artistic talent. A smooth prose is use to describe the creature being searched for, and something of their natural habitat. This is an almost rhythmic prose which is quite suited for the subject matter. The author has given us a good mix here. Some of the animals are somewhat easy to spot, while others are more difficult. No artistic trickery is used here; all is natural. Even the astute adult reader will have just a wee bit of trouble finding some of the critters such as the sphinx moth, garter snake and herd of twenty deer. If you are starting to introduce your child to the wonders of nature, then this is a very good choice for one of the books to begin with. Ideally, after reading this work and others like it, long walks in the woods, fields or along streams will work wonders in increasing the child's awareness of what is around them. This is a fun book to read with your child as they delight in finding the animals and there is an opportunity to have many, many wonderful discussions about nature and the creatures we share this planet with. This is a great addition to any child's library. Don Blankenship The Ozarks