The Usborne Illustrated Encyclopedia: The Natural World

I am using this book as a 1st and 2nd grade science textbook for 2 of my kids. It is a great jumping-off point for further research in the library, and also at-home experiments.

My son who usually doesn't like to sit in one place very long, actually read the book for a stretch of an hour without any dangling carrots! I strongly recommend this book for any home library.The book is organized by subject groups, ie birds, fish, plants, worms, etc. The pages are full of clear and short descriptions(just right for elementary school children), and wonderful pictures of the animals/insects in action. I found myself reading it with equal enthusiasm. It is a great introduction to the living creatures around us.