Life-Size Zoo

The claim to fame for this oversize collection of animal portraits is that each animal is shown at “actual size.” The striking photographs, taken at Japanese zoos, provide a rare opportunity to see animal faces up close (for bigger animals, like the elephant, the pages fold out) from the tiger's pink tongue to an armadillo and hedgehog, shown in profile, as well as rolled up tight. Animal facts are provided in side panels that feature stick figures who engage readers (“Can you see that this zebra has... long hairs underneath her eyes?”) and cute cartoon versions of each creature. The stellar photographs, playful format and informative content create a highly appealing package. Ages 3–up. (Apr.)