National Book Network Trees, Leaves, & Bark

As far as first field guides go, these are great! Each of these guides features a page per species, and describes, in clear, simple language what it looks likes, what it eats, and most importantly, where to find it. This information may include the size, color, patterns, seasonal habits, lists of foods that it likes, and best of all, what it sounds like. Well, at least sound is discussed in the Frogs, Toads, and Turtles sample that I have perused extensively. I like how the sound is described in print, like the Pacific treefrog's "Kreck-ek-kreck-ek." Detailed, lifelike illustrations accompany the information, and other interesting facts about the species are featured as well. Hints on hunting for and sighting species, along with warnings about any dangerous species are included at the bottom of each page. More than just a field guide, however, activities are given between sections of the book, in Frogs, making a toad house, a turtle paperweight, and a frog puzzle. A ruler is even built in on the back cover, so if you happen to find a small specimen on your nature walk, you can just hold it up to the book! The large, square pages, and bright colors are so appealing, you'll have a hard time prying them out of your young nature lover's hands if Janine is any example. Of course they'll just have to go along with you on all your nature walks... just in case! Each book is featured separately below, but if you want to look for everything at once on your walks, each Fun with Nature title features six of the below titles, for a very economical price.