Alligators and Crocodiles (Core Content Science ― Animal Look-Alikes)

Former editor Joanne Mattern has written over 350 children's books, many of which focus on animals and nature. Joanne lives in New York state with her human family and several animals.

"Each title pairs two animal groups, exploring their similarities and differences. Contrasts include physical features, such as the antennae of butterflies and moths, and behavior variations, like the survival tactics of hedgehogs vs. porcupines. Mattern offers useful overviews of the animals. Some visual content is effective: photographs contrasting the skin of frogs and toads, or crocodile and alligator snouts. In a few cases, the images lack captions and may confuse readers trying to sort out which group is which. Photo choices do not always reflect the text. Occasional small cartoon drawings add a bit of light humor. Each book closes with information about the survival prospects of both animal groups. VERDICT Additional purchases."―School Library Journal Series Made Simple

"Each book in the Animal Look-Alikes series examines two creatures with similar appearances and teaches readers how to tell them apart through comparison and contrast. An introductory section presents the group or family to which each animal pair belongs, citing shared features before addressing differences in the subjects' features (form and function), size, diets, habitats, and ranges. With the exception of Butterflies and Moths, a 'Where in the World?' spread appears in each volume, positioning the featured animals on a color-coded world map. The uncluttered layout uses colorful page borders and crisp photos, often captioned or labeled, that successfully illustrate the text. Chrysalises are pitted against cocoons in Butterflies and Moths, which helps readers identify these insects by their antennae, wing structure, and time of day during which they're active. A word on the importance of protecting animals closes each volume. These informative books come with an irresistible hook and well-organized content, though having supplemental information on animal classification is recommended."―Booklist Online

"Each book in the Animal Look-Alikes series examines two creatures with similar appearances and teaches readers how to tell them apart through comparison and contrast. An introductory section presents the group or family to which each animal pair belongs, citing shared features before addressing differences in the subjects' features (form and function), size, diets, habitats, and ranges. With the exception of Butterflies and Moths, a 'Where in the World?' spread appears in each volume, positioning the featured animals on a color-coded world map. The uncluttered layout uses colorful page borders and crisp photos, often captioned or labeled, that successfully illustrate the text. Alligators and Crocodiles shows how these reptiles can be differentiated by their snout shapes and coloring. A word on the importance of protecting animals closes each volume. These informative books come with an irresistible hook and well-organized content, though having supplemental information on animal classification is recommended."―Booklist