The illustrated encyclopaedia of dangerous animals by Sami Bayly
Lothian Children's Books, 2020. ISBN: 9780734420015.
(Age: 8+). Highly recommended. The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of
Dangerous Animals is a stunning new companion to The
Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Ugly Animals written and
illustrated by Sami Bayly. Dangerous animals provide a fascination
for both adults and children everywhere. The author has presented
more than sixty of what may be the most deadly and dangerous animals
from places all over the world in a beautifully illustrated and easy
to read non-fiction book. The Contents pages show a miniature image
of the animal with its name underneath. Each animal is presented on
a double page spread with information on one half and an
illustration with amazing detail on the other. The scientific name
of the animal is given plus a pronunciation guide. From the headings
of description, danger factor, conservation status, diet,
location/habitat and fun facts the reader will learn more about the
dangerous animal under discussion and how it has adapted to life
today. There are some Australian surprises in the book - the magpie
features as it can attack humans in breeding season, the Red
Kangaroo is known for its boxing technique against both humans and
other kangaroos and the Bulldog Ant exhibits aggressive behaviour
and its venom can paralyse smaller creatures. Other more unique
animals included are the Alligator Snapping Turtle, Geography Cone
Snail, Human Botfly, Kissing Bug, and the Oriental Rat Flea.
This book would be a welcome addition to any library and a perfect
resource for student research when teachers introducing or
revisiting the information report genre.
There are detailed teacher resources available.
Themes: Dangerous Animals.
Kathryn Beilby