Reading Level: Grades 1-2 Interest Level: Grades K – 3
Squids are one of the most fascinating creatures of the sea! About 1,000 feet below the ocean’s surface, these cephalopods are experts at evading enemies. Some squirt ink, while others change colors to confuse predators. Young readers will learn all about squids in this enticing title about one of the ocean’s most unusual animals.
'Ocean Life Up Close is an extensive series that covers a diverse range of underwater animals. Up-close and colorful photographs for each animal increase the appeal for young readers. Recurring features include the “Species Spotlight,” which highlights one specific variety of the animal with basic information including life span, depth range in the ocean, the range of the habitat, and its conservation status. Other areas of focus include relative sizes and animal life-cycles, presented in an easy-to-understand and visually attractive format. THOUGHTS: This series is wonderful for classes doing research, especially if each student needs a book. Each title presents a lot of quality information, informative for students and teachers alike, and is easy to understand, with bright pictures. The series is also ideal for a wide range of grades.', Emily Woodward, The Baldwin School,'Squids is a great introduction to this wily cephalopod. The text is manageable and words that might be unfamiliar are bolded and defined in the glossary. There are plenty of photos, many labeled, that illustrate the information presented. The ‘chapters’ are well-organized around squid relatives, diet, life cycle, predators and anatomy. Typical nonfiction features include a table of contents, index, glossary and extra resources for further study. This book is part of “Ocean Life Up Close” series and a good addition for those libraries that need updated materials.', Candy Ranney, South Sound Book Review Council, Washington,'A nonfiction book for advance fluent readers on squids. The book contains colorful photos that are vivid and bright. The book also includes nonfiction text features such as maps, labels, bold words, glossary, and an index. This is a good starting point for research on squids. If students want to learn more about squids the book recommends other books, and a website too. This is part of the Blastoff! Readers series.', Melissa Tom, Arlington (TX) ISD
