The lives and qualities of some especially interesting animals are introduced with engaging text and strong visual support. Each book provides a brief but clear overview of the creature’s physical features, diet, habitat, and life cycle, with extra attention paid to distinct characteristics such as the narwhal’s tusk and the eyes of the tarsier. Well-chosen photographs are complemented by useful visual resources such as range maps, compar- ison charts, and food chain diagrams. Small- er images showing environments without the animals are less useful. An appealing “by the numbers” spread offers a handful of fun facts and statistics. Closing pages look at threats to the animals’ survival along with a bit about current efforts to protect them. Text and visu- als are just right for middle elementary-age students who enjoy learning about especially unusual animals. VERDICT Excellent profiles for browsers and report writers.

What strange-looking creatures inhabit our planet? Young readers can find out with the Curious Creatures series (6 titles), each volume of which spotlights a mammal with unique, eye-catching features. Over the course of several short chapters, each book establishes a strong base of information on its unusual subject. The first chapter provides a scenario showing the creature “in action” and then introduces its most distinctive body part. Elephant Seals highlights the trunkish noses of these blubbery behemoths. Additional chapters address the animals’ food and habitat; their young, family or group life, and growth; and the threats they face from humans. Throughout, large photos emphasize the animals’ unusual physical traits. Plentiful, simple infographics also make the books’ facts easy to understand. Fascinating statistics are found in a two-page, illustrated “By the Numbers” section covering everything from the size of the animals’ unusual body parts to the age at which females can reproduce to the animals’ typical lifespan. A glossary and “Learn More” resource list round out the back matter. An interesting and informative peek into the lives of some of Earth’s unusual inhabitants.