cover image Animal Planet Animal Atlas

Animal Planet Animal Atlas

James Buckley Jr., illus. by Aaron Meshon. Time/Liberty Street, $17.95 (64p) ISBN 978-1-61893-165-8

This world atlas, published in partnership with Animal Planet, highlights biomes and animal ecosystems within the world’s continents rather than focusing on nations and their borders. Illustrated images of the seven continents open sections devoted to each, followed by detailed introductions to various biomes, which include the grasslands of Europe, African rainforest, North American temperate forest, and Australian desert. Bright, full-bleed photographs showcase the differing landscapes of the biomes and the animals that call them home, and sidebars provide additional facts about the creatures (“Kingsnakes are nonvenomous hunters that usually eat rodents and other snakes”). Vibrant nature photography, concise explanations, and playful details that include regional animal “tour guides” add up to an accessible overview of wildlife, habitats, and world regions. Proceeds from book sales benefit Animal Planet’s animal welfare organization, R.O.A.R. Ages 6–10. (May)