Rivers and Lakes-Nature Hide a

These sophisticated yet uncomplicated entries in the Nature Hide & Seek series provide simultaneous lessons in animal recognition, counting, environmental habitats and world geography. Each of five sections uses a fold-out panorama to depict a particular environment, while a subsequent spread contains pictorial hints and an observation list. In a river of central southern Africa, for instance, youngsters are asked to locate ``4 Nile crocodiles, 12 hippopotamuses, 8 chacma baboons, 4 sitatunga'' and more, for a total of 43 creatures, while descriptions of each species accompany stand-alone illustrations. Rivers & Lakes spotlights a variety of exotic environments, while Woods & Forests focuses on New England and European habitats. Both books easily accommodate a wide range of abilities and attention spans, and the ``Hide & Seek'' of the series title accurately suggests the author and artists' game approach. Ages 5-9. (Aug.)