Review of Two Great Nonfiction Books

Do you need to write a book report about a cool animal? Here are two great sources.
​

​Ranger Rick: I wish I was an Elephant
Written by Jennifer Bove
Age Level: 4 – 8
Grade Level: P – 3

This is a great easy book to read. The facts are fantastic, and so are the photographs. Jennifer hooked me by asking, what if you wished to be an elephant? The text shows the facts, how you would eat, talk, and live like one. It gives you a trunks’ eye view into their lives. Jennifer ended by letting me wonder would I want to.
 
The content is level 1, and it’s perfect for young readers and for older ones who need book report information they understand. Back matter includes a glossary and a hands on activity, how to play ‘elephant hockey.’ The only difference is you have to use your arms instead of a trunk. I need to find some kids and try it out!

---

​ How Do Cats Purr?
Written by Nancy Furstinger
Age Level: 10 – 12
Grade Level: 2 – 3

This is a great nonfiction chapter book, and it’s also easy to read. It has great cat-facts, like the record purr is as loud as a dishwasher. Here are the 4 chapters in the book with a question they’ll answer:
1 – How old are kittens when they begin to purr?
2—How does a purr move from the brain to the mouth?
3 – How do cats voice their feelings?
4 – What unusual sounds do cats make, and what do they mean?
The end pages include a glossary, the top 5 reasons why cats are awesome, a drawing activity, and another one where you can learn to listen like a cat. There’s a list of resources for you to check out and an index to help you find facts you’re interested in. The table of contents at the front will help you too.

---