Reading Level: Grade 1 Interest Level: Grades K – 3
Orioles are eye-catching songbirds! These backyard birds are known for their colorful feathers and impressive hanging nests. This title introduces beginning readers to the lives of these birds through bright photos and engaging text. Special features call out the birds’ relatives, favorite foods, and distinctive calls. This book is sure to help young readers soar!
'Blastoff! Readers level 1 – This 6 book series is perfect for young naturalists in the lower elementary grades! Written at an approximate 1st - 2nd grade level, each double page features a text box with 2-3 simple sentences on the left side and full color photos on the right. The bold vocabulary words are illustrated with extra photos to reinforce their meaning. The glossary in the back also includes both a definition and a photo to help visual learners. Each book is divided into 3 short chapters. The 1st chapter identifies the unique physical characteristics of the bird along with photos of other birds in the same family. The 2nd and 3rd chapters show the types of food they eat and homes they build, as well as how they communicate. The bright covers that show close-up realistic photos of the birds are sure to entice young readers to open it up and see what’s inside! Highly recommended for any library serving young children!', Cheryl Kellen, Librarian, Parkers Prairie Public Schools,'Black-and-orange songbirds dart through the pages of this Backyard Birds series (6 titles) entry. As this is a level 1 reader, crisp color photographs feature prominently and offer strong visual support to the text, which utilizes short sentences, word repetition, and bolded vocabulary (defined in a picture glossary). Labels are frequently applied to the photos, and, occasionally, a mini sequence of pictures is provided to allow for comparison (such as of the Baltimore, hooded, and Bullock's oriole species) or to reinforce a concept from the text. Young readers will learn about orioles' appearance, diet, nesting habits, migratory flocks, and vocalizations. The only thing missing is a range map to show readers which species they should be looking for in and their own yards. Still, this makes a cheerful introduction to a lovely bird.', Angela Leeper, Booklist
