I’ve Got Eyes! Exceptional Eyes of the Animal World

Thirteen animals of all kinds expressively describe their distinctive eyes and vision. “I’ve got oblong eyes. My wide eyes make sure no one creeps up on me!” a goat says. A chameleon has “solo eyes. My eyes can work alone, with each one looking in a different direction.” A stalk-eyed fly describes its “handlebar eyes,” and the crocodile fish has “hiding eyes” concealed by lacy flaps of skin. On right-hand pages, zoologist Murphy provides descriptions of the animals’ eye anatomy and the way the world looks to the disparate species: “Each of the camel’s eyes has two rows of eyelashes and three eyelids to keep out dust and sand. It’s like having built-in goggles!” Tolson’s art resembles cut-paper collage with crayonlike accents. Murphy concludes by inviting readers to think about their own vision: “You’ve got eyes too! What can your eyes do?” The blend of science and playful depictions brings the intriguing topic to life. Ages 5–8. (Sept.)