Published by Harry N. Abrams
Summary: Using mask poems (poems in which the writer speaks in the voice of someone or something else), Linda Ashman has animals give hints as to what they are and what superlatives (fastest, biggest, stinkiest, etc.) they hold in the animal world. Each poem has an illustration showing part of the animal to give an additional clue. Turn the page, and the animal is pictured in full, along with a paragraph of information. Opening and closing poems introduce the contest. Includes additional information about protecting endangered animals, measurements, and mask poems, as well as a glossary, and lists of websites and books. 48 pages; grades 1-4.
Pros: I do love a good guessing book to keep kids engaged, and this one lets readers guess both the animals and the records they hold. The illustrations are cute and offer hints to go with each poem. Kids can try their hands at mask poems after reading these.
Cons: It may be a little long for primary kids to get through all of these in one sitting.


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