Turtles of the World

Book Description

From the familiar painted turtle basking on a log to the majestic long-lived giant tortoises, turtles are among the most fascinating animals on the planet. For many years Franck Bonin, Bernard Devaux, and Alain Dupré have traveled the world together to study turtles in their natural habitats. In this complete guide to the world's nearly 300 species of turtles, the authors reveal intimate, little-known details of these intriguing reptiles in their native habitats: what they eat, where they live, how they behave, and when and where they lay their eggs.

Originally written in French, the text has been translated by one of the world's leading turtle experts, Peter C. H. Pritchard. The result is a beautifully written and illustrated book that belongs on the shelf of every library, public and private. Written for the millions of turtle lovers and nature enthusiasts who will find answers to their questions within its pages, this book is bound to become the standard reference for years to come.

Customer Reviews:

Turtle of the World.......2007-07-12

I highly recommend it a must-have reference for all people serious about turtles. It is up-to-date with the most recent taxonomy.

Key to any serious turtle researcher........2007-05-17

College-level holdings, many an aquarium shop, and any serious natural history collection must have TURTLES OF THE WORLD. It's a definitive survey originally written in French and translated by a leading turtle expert, Peter C.H. Pritchard. Nearly 300 species of world turtles are covered including their habitats, lifestyle, and maps and photos. Co-written by a veterinarian expert with turtles, a nonprofit turtle research foundation and an avid conservationist, TURTLES OF THE WORLD's color photos pack every page and its information is well-rounded and key to any serious turtle researcher.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Turtles of the World: a companion book for turtle fanciers.......2007-02-27

Turtles of the World by Frank Bonin, Bernard Devaux, and Alain Dupre was originally published in French in 1996 and was followed by two editions. Peter Pritchard, a well-known turtle biologist and conservationist, translated the third edition into English for Johns Hopkins University Press. The hardback book is printed on coated paper and bound well for moderate use. It is more of a reference book than something one would carry in the field. In general, Turtles of the World is a good reference to all known species of turtles.

The front matter takes up 9 pages and covers general biology, paleontology, anatomy, physiology, behavior, and conservation. None of these sections is thorough, so readers should find other sources for in-depth information on these subjects. Each section to follow contains short species accounts that includes distribution, description, natural history, and protection. The distribution maps are shaded portions of continents showing country and major river outlines. One to two color photographs accompany each account. The maps are only generalizations and should not be considered accurate. The photos are attractive but provide only one or two views that may or may not be useful for identification because of the variation in color and pattern commonly exhibited by turtles. Some photos are much better than others.

Turtle taxonomy is in a state of flux. Name changes are published yearly due to our increasingly better understanding of relationships and geneaology. Some of the names in this book are stable but others; some are outdated. Kinosternon odoratum on page 173, for example, was used only temporarily in the scientific literature, as the long-standing name Sternotherus odoratus has remained otherwise stable for over a century. Nowhere in the species account is the more commonly used name mentioned. Thus, the names in this book should be checked against other, more scientific sources. Note that only scientific names are used in the book. Common names are not provided except in some accounts where they are deep in the text. The scientific names are followed by the authority, the name or names of the person or persons who provided the scientific name used here and the year in which that name was published. Readers unfamiliar with taxonomy will wonder why some of these names are in parentheses and others not. Nowhere in the book is that explained. Those in parentheses signify that the scientific name was originally placed in another genus by the authority, but that later changes put the species name in a different genus. Note here that a species name consists of two words: a genus and a species combined. The species name must always be accompanied by the generic name.

This book gives short shrift to the extreme plight turtles face around the world. They are declining at an alarming rate, especially in southeast Asia where nearly all species are threatened with immenent full-blown extinction. Why? Two reasons: consumption of turtles in China and other oriential markets, and loss of habitat. Readers should search for other sources to learn about the problems and efforts being made by people who love turtles to keep species from declining further.

Turtles of the World is a book that all turtle hobbyists and many professionals will want on their bookshelves for reference and comparative photographs. It should be used in conjunction with other books on turtle biology and identification. Peter Pritchard should be thanked for making this book available to the English audience.

Good reference, but doesn't replace previous works........2007-01-29

Bonin, Devaux, and Dupre's book takes on a big challenge in cataloguing world turtle diversity and will serve well as an impressive addition.

The introduction is 9 pages and concise. Phylogenetic history, a couple of ancestral species, anatomy, senses, metabolism, behavior, and threats are summarized in prose oscillating between introductory and expert. The rest of the book is comprised of species accounts.

Pictures in this book are better used for fun than identification. The picture of savannah sidenecks (Podocnemis vogli) is awesome. Quite a few species are not pictured and subspecies/ regional variations are not visually comparable. There is not consistency in shot angles for practical comparison between species. Some species are pictured only as hatchlings, some are depicted only by a close zoom on the head, and at least two species appear to have their photographs switched. Picture captions don't include species' names, which may cause confusion. This book's visuals could be aided by Vetter's pictorial "Turtles of the World" multi-volume Terralog series.

Range maps are blobbed in. The map outlines are crude, and range outlines do not respect watersheds or other important distributional boundaries. A general idea of where species occur can be drawn.

Species' Description's are good, although no dichotomous keys are provided. The Natural History section for many species is shorter than current information necessitates, while for some (especially some tortoise species and the marine turtles) this section is disproportionately long. Details on reproduction (laying season, egg size, etc.) are given for some species, but absent from many for which information is available. The Protection section is very inconsistent between species. For some, IUCN and CITES information is included, while for others, it's left out. National protection status is discussed for turtles of France and French Guyana, but absent for virtually every other nation's turtle fauna.

There are virtually no citations throughout the book even though it's written in relatively diagnostic lingo. The bibliography is very short (page and a half) for the amount of information included, and information from the authors' experiences should have been noted where appropriate.

The French-to-English translation must be well done, because the book reads very cleanly, especially for a semi-technical reference. The book's construct is just like a textbook; cover, paper and print should survive many years of steady use.

This reference is not a replacement for the previous "Turtles of the World" by Ernst and Barbour (1989) or "Encyclopedia of Turtles" by Pritchard (1979), but it will serve well in the possession of anyone with an interest in turtle diversity. It may well do a stronger job than both previous works in sparking interest from future turtle enthusiasts through its more accessible nature.

Excellent new reference work.......2007-01-10

This is an indispensable book for any ardent turtle lover or biologist. It updates and improves on the standard works of the past, such as Peter Pritchard's much-quoted Encyclopedia of Turtles. This latest and most up-to-date encyclopedia, originally written in French, has been translated into English by the same Dr. Pritchard, one of the world's foremost turtle experts, and contains every single turtle species still in existance, about half of which will be completely new to most people with an interest in these animals.

The book focuses on the lives of these animals in the wild, so people wanting to read about keeping turtles in captivity will not find answers to their questions here. The work contains a wealth of color photos, geographical maps and preservation statuses for all species. As all species had to fit into one volume, some are not described in as much detail as others, but as these are mainly subspecies, this is a minor quibble.

Warmly recommended.

Average customer rating:

My favorite present to give...
Beautiful message for young and old
Truly Beautifully Written and Illustrated - With One "But" . . .
Children love it
A Great Book

Old Turtle
Douglas Wood
Manufacturer: Scholastic Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0439309085

Amazon.com

When all of creation--trees, stones, ants, the sky, fish—-begins arguing over who or what God is, quiet Old Turtle is the only one who has the wisdom and ability to see beyond herself to capture the essence. The debate escalates until Old Turtle finally speaks: "STOP!" She accepts and incorporates the beliefs of all the creatures: "God is indeed deep," she says to the fish in the sea, "and much higher than high," she tells the mountains. "God is gentle and powerful. Above all things and within all things... God IS." Old Turtle, after silencing the crowds with her understanding, makes a prediction about the appearance of a new "family of beings" in the world. These beings, human beings, do appear, and soon are fighting among themselves over the nature of God. It is only when people start listening to the mountains and winds and stones and stars that they actually begin to hear--and to heal the earth.

A graceful fable, with elegant, dreamlike watercolors by illustrator Cheng-Khee Chee, Douglas Wood's modern-day classic makes a hushed but strong environmental statement, as well as a plea for universal acceptance. (Ages 5 and older) --Emilie Coulter

Book Description

When it was first published a decade ago, OLD TURTLE was hailed as a beautiful fable about ecology, peace, and the interconnectedness of all beings. Now considered a modern classic, OLD TURTLE continues to inspire people all over the world. Few books can match the understated power of its hopeful message or the evocative beauty of its illustrations. Each book will be packed with a CD featuring the author, Douglas Wood, reading the book, accompanied by original musical compositions. To commemorate the tenth anniversary of this best-selling favorite, a percentage of the book's proceeds will be donated to worldwide peacemaking organizations.

Customer Reviews:

My favorite present to give..........2007-09-17

Many years ago I worked in an educational toy store. I loved the toys there. But even more so, I loved the books. I discovered Old Turtle there. Since then, I give it as a present to every child in my life---and to a couple of adults too. (: It's a beautiful story---in words and illustrations. What a profound and joyful gift it makes!

Beautiful message for young and old.......2007-01-10

This beautifully illustrated book wisely introduces children to the concept of how God is in all things and all people. Old turtle's powerful message can be used by people of any faith, and I think the story appeals to people of all ages. I was so touched by it, I bought a copy for myself.

Truly Beautifully Written and Illustrated - With One "But" . . ........2006-09-26

I agree with all the reviewers below in that this is a beautifully written and illustrated story. It is a nice way to introduce the concept of "who or what God is" to children because in this book different aspects of God's creation argue about what God is like (ie, everywhere, isolated, high, low, little, big, etc.) In the end, they realize that He is all these things. He is everything. Then the people come and they forget who God is and in doing so, destroy the earth. This is the part of the book that I have a problem with. I'm not sure that it is truly accurate, or neccessary for the story. The illustration that accompanies this portion of the story is overly-dramatic, in my opinion: dead fish, a skeleton, and a some type of dead ox or steer. In the end, the people remember who God is and the earth is restored. Overall, I am happy with this purchase, and willl use it with my children and students. I might just skip the part about people killing the earth or not show the illustration on this page.

Children love it.......2006-09-21

The Publisher's Weekly review said this is too difficult for children. But back when it was first in bookstores, my 6-year-old daughter told me there was a very good book we should look at. She took my hand and led me to Old Turtle in a bookstore, where she had discovered it herself. We bought it promptly. Kids need everyday books like how Tommy first tied his shoe, but until pre-teen brain damage sets in, we need to give them more credit for the higher concepts they can understand. For us, it was the story that touched us so deeply. The illustrations were just a lovely and interesting bonus.

A Great Book.......2006-04-22

This book makes me think every time I read it. It has an all-encompassing message to people of all faiths. Aside from the valuable message conveyed in simple verse to be appreciated by the young and old, the illustration is breathtaking. This is the perfect gift for a religious occasion, a graduation or the birth or adoption of a new little one. It is also the perfect gift to give yourself. I don't want to detail the book for you because you simply must see it to get the full experience and I do not want to spoil it. A must-have.

Turtle Summer: A Journal for My Daughter

Average customer rating:

Children love it
Teach the Children
A spectacular book for outdoor education!
A delightful idea - scrapbooking at the seashore!
Loggerhead Sea Turtles

Turtle Summer: A Journal for My Daughter
Mary Alice Monroe
Manufacturer: Sylvan Dell Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0977742350

Book Description

This is a companion book to Mary Alice Monroe's adult novel, Swimming Lessons, (Mira), the sequel to The Beach House. In the novel, the readers witness a young mother, Toy, writing a journal for her daughter, Little Lovie. Turtle Summer: A Journal for my Daughter is the journal Toy is writing. Using original photographs, this scrapbook journal explains the nesting cycle of sea turtles and the natural life along the southeastern coast, including local shore birds, shells, and the sea turtle hospital. Adults and children will enjoy the images, information and journal with or without the novel.

Customer Reviews:

Children love it.......2007-10-09

We gave the book to our Grandaughter, who is a first-grade teacher, and the children absolutely loved it.
It was an excellent introduction to conservancy of species.

Teach the Children.......2007-08-24

Turtle Summer is an excellent book for teaching children about the great loggerhead turtles and the people who care about the turtles and help take care of them.

A spectacular book for outdoor education!.......2007-06-05

The perfect "nature awareness" book! The format of appearing like a scrapbook is captivating. I used this in my 4th grade classroom... much to my students' delight. They loved it! If you plan on going to the beach this summer, especially in the southeast, it is a must!
Ms. Monroe also has some adult novels that are terrific! The Beach House

A delightful idea - scrapbooking at the seashore!.......2007-05-23

Turtle Summer, a Journal for my Daughter

This book presents a charming idea for a parent and child: to keep a nature scrapbook. Mary Alice Monroe has written and illustrated this enchanting journal of a mother and daughter's summer surveillance for loggerhead sea turtles on their beach. While watching the turtle nests, they observe and sketch nature's other offerings at the seashore. Like a family photo album, it is an intimate book.

Photographer Barbara J. Bergwerf teamed with Mary Alice Monroe to add exceptional and informative photos, including one of Carolina from the previous Sylvan Dell book, Carolina's Story: Sea Turtle's Get Sick Too! This is a splendid mixture of photos, drawing, and text. Children, ages 4 - 9 will relate to this book and its activities, hopefully clamoring to create a similar journal with their siblings and parents.

Loggerhead Sea Turtles.......2007-05-10

Turtle Summer is an outstanding book which can be enjoyed by all ages, even though it is geared for children. The text is very accurate having been written by bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe and the pictures are something to behold. Barb Bergwerf is a superb photographer. Turtle Summer will be a book you will treasure and one you will want to give to all your friends who are interested in nature and our environment. It is a wonderful learning tool for children, too!

Average customer rating:

Amazing book for children
Minn of the Mississippi
Still wonderful after all these years
Every child deserves a chance to read this book.
This is my favorite book

Minn of the Mississippi
Holling C. Holling
Manufacturer: Houghton Mifflin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Science Fiction | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Teens | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0395273994

Book Description

The history of the Mississippi River Valley is told in text and pictures through the adventures of Minn, a snapping turtle, as she travels downstream.

Customer Reviews:

Amazing book for children.......2007-08-05

I love this book because it teaches so much geography and history. The pictures are amazing.

Minn of the Mississippi.......2007-05-09

Read this book as a child, and wanted it in my own personal library. Wonderful book!

Still wonderful after all these years.......2002-09-13

I read this book in elementary school and went looking for it again last year as a gift for a niece. Be warned that there's a scene that she found really sad (Minn gets hurt) -- and it made her cry. So maybe it's not for sensitive first-graders. Still, the story is wonderful and little Minn is a great character. There's also a lot of fascinating natural detail. And stunning illustrations. It's a children's book version of a top-notch Nature documentary. "Nova" in print, if you will. Also check out Holling Clancy Holling's other books. They're all great, even looking back at them after three decades.

Every child deserves a chance to read this book........2001-02-06

At age 52, I can vividly remember discovering this book in my local library as a boy in 4th grade, especially the luminous color illustrations and drawings Hollings used to tell the story of the journey of a snapping turtle from the Mississippi's trickling source in Minnesota, to its fullness in the Gulf of Mexico. In following the life of "Minn," from hatchling to a veteran survivor of many predators and adventures, I learned the history and lore of the river and the animals and people who live in it and along its banks. This is a book that does not talk down to its young readers. I am buying one now to read again, and to share with any grandchildren who may come along in our family.

This is my favorite book.......1998-11-13

I discovered this book when I was in fourth grade. I thought it was the best book ever written. I especially enjoyed the juxaposition of the biology of the snapping turtle with the history and geography of the Mississippi River

Franklin And The Thunderstorm (Franklin)

Average customer rating:

Very helpful
"WE HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR BUT FEAR ITSELF."
Afraid
Children Will Enjoy It
It really helps deal with the fear of thunderstorms.

Franklin And The Thunderstorm (Franklin)
Paulette Bourgeois
Manufacturer: Scholastic Paperbacks
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Turtles | Animals | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0590026356

Book Description

Franklin is terrified of thunderstorms. One day, as a storm approaches, a flash of lightning sends him into his shell. He refuses to come out until his friends make him laugh with their tall tales about cloud giants and how they cause storms. When Beaver explains what really causes lightning and thunder, Franklin begins to feel much safer.

Customer Reviews:

Very helpful.......2006-02-27

My 3 yr old son really enjoys this book. At the time we purchased this he was afraid of loud noises. This book has helped to ease his fears. The book is well written and the characters are cute. I would recommend this to anyone.

"WE HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR BUT FEAR ITSELF.".......2002-05-13

FRANKLIN AND THE THUNDERSTORM is a colorful, entertaining, imaginative young reader book dealing with a relevant issue--FEAR. We all have them so this young reader book is sure to grab the child's attention. There is conflict and character growth, the formula for a great story a child will remember and ask for again.

Franklin's mother sends a reluctant and nervous turtle dressed in galoshes and a rain hat, carrying an umbrella, over to his friend, Fox's house as a storm begins to brew. When he arrives, there are three other animals there sharing their opinions about the approaching thunderstorm such as: "My fur feels funny," says Fox. "My feathers get all ruffled," says Hawk. "I can smell a storm coming," says Beaver sniffing. No one seems to be scared but Franklin. But he is scared enough for all four of his buddies! The storm hits full force and they all run inside. When the power goes out Franklin is so terrified he retreats inside his shell and no kind of coaxing on anyone's part, even treats from Mrs. Fox, will get him out. So Franklin's friends use their imaginations and begin talking about the CLOUD GIANTS. Whether the Cloud Giants are bowling or playing drums in the sky (thunder,) swinging from chandeliers or turning their lights on and off (lightning,) the illustrations are what make the story so great. Beaver quotes Mr. Owl's factual definition of thunder and Franklin, by this time, is out of his shell and smiling. Fox and his friends go back outside and Franklin discovers a rainbow. What Franklin say at the ending rounds out this very special story.

*You should buy this for the funny illustrations of the Cloud giants and what Franklin says about rainbows alone. Wonderful short story for ages 4-8. I got a set of 4 Franklins in a book club for my young daughter and this is her favorite.

Afraid.......2002-01-31

It helps children to deal with fears. In this book Franklin is afraid of thunderstorms. His friends help him thru it when they find out and are supported. This is an excellent book for any child that has a fear.

Children Will Enjoy It.......2000-06-28

Franklin is leary about journeying to his friend Fox's house as an eminent thunderstorm is brewing in the skies above. Through understanding and encouragement from his friends, Franklin learns to deal with the inevitable storm and gains comfort from his friends.

It really helps deal with the fear of thunderstorms........1999-01-22

This book is very well written. It makes it easy for children of any age to relate to the story. It also shows children that its okay to be afraid and shows ways to deal with that fear. (for parents too)!

Average customer rating:

One of the best....
A new Stephanie Lisa Tara fan
I'll Follow the Moon
A soothing bedtime read!
A Mum's Favorite

I'll Follow the Moon
Stephanie Lisa Tara
Manufacturer: Brown Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Turtles | Animals | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 1933285133

Book Description

On a quiet moonlit beach, a baby green sea turtle stirs from a dream of home. Slowly, slowly with a tap, click, crack, the baby turtle embarks upon a mysterious nighttime journey. Gentle tender verse and enchanting illustrations carry this tranquil tale from sand to sea.

Stephanie's first book, I'll Follow the Moon comforts children with its soothing tone and melodic repetition.

Customer Reviews:

One of the best...........2007-01-30

This is one of the best children's books I have ever read! My [...] son, who loves turtles, is inpired to read with this book. Stephanie Lisa brilliantly incorporates the adventure of a baby sea turle hatchng from his egg to his trip into the sea, all the while following the moon to find his mother. The illustrations are beautiful. A must read!

A new Stephanie Lisa Tara fan.......2006-07-27

A neighbor sent me the link to this author's website and I immediately became entranced with her style, it is unique, captivating and totally engaging - my kids (5, 6 and 8) LOVE it! I sent the web site link to all my friends - everyone adores her books, they are fun, inspirational and this mom wants to put the word out for others: With the oversaturated, overabundant children's picture book market, why not choose books with sweet, thoughtful and positive messages?! It helps us moms do our jobs better! From one mom to another - thanks Stephanie Lisa Tara!

I'll Follow the Moon.......2006-05-09

I stumbled across this book quite by accident, and I found it to be a treasure. The verse is lovely and calm, as are the illustrations. It also depicts fairly accurately a remarkable natural phenomenon. As a new mom who longed for a child for many years and eventually adopted internationally, I found the symbolism achingly beautiful. I have since given the book to several friends who have also waited for their children to find them. This book is far too beautiful to be limited to the adoption genre, however. It is very meaningful on a number of different levels!

A soothing bedtime read!.......2005-12-02

All children want to have security, and they love animals. I'll Follow the Moon by Stephanie Lisa Tara is about both.

On a serene, quiet sandy beach a baby sea turtle breaks free from its egg and begins the journey to find home and mother, all the while saying, "I'm coming, Mama, I'll see you soon. I know just how...I'll follow the moon." And follow the moon to Mama is exactly what the baby sea turtle does.

The simple words and gentle rhythm makes this a wonderful bedtime story. It is soothing and subtly conveys the message that Mother will be there for the child. The watercolor illustrations are solid, yet soft. They beautifully portray the beach and sky in an inviting way that adds to the soothing nature of the book.

Armchair Interviews says: Not only is this a wonderful story for parents to read to their little ones, but it is a book that grandparents will welcome as they care for their grandchildren. I'll Follow the Moon can help them assure their beloved grandchildren that their parent's absence is temporary. It is a lovely book that will be read and reread.

A Mum's Favorite.......2005-11-08

I am a mum and I must say to everyone who reads this, that this tale is just exceptional. I cant read it without a tear slipping down my cheek, my twin three year olds adore it. There is something so genuine about the rhythm, the pictures, the message. I read an American review on the book that spoke of the light of a mother's love being ever present for her children. Just beautiful. Tops. Looking for more titles from this lovely author.

Average customer rating:

good condition but slow
4 1/2* Turtles Emerge!
Enchanting story, beautiful pictures!

Turtle Bay
Saviour Pirotta
Manufacturer: Frances Lincoln
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Turtles | Animals | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 1845074114

Book Description

Old Jiro-San sits on the beach listening to the wind, sweeping the sand with a broom, and waiting, always waiting. Some people think he is a little strange, but Taro is fascinated by the old wise man and his wonderful secrets. And when Jiro-San reveals that some special friends — Japanese sea turtles that are ready to lay their eggs — are on their way to the beach, Taro and his sister Yuko help Jiro-San prepare for them.

Based on a true story, this charming picture book features an endnote about sea turtles and an endorsement by the leader of Marine Turtle Research Program at the United States National Marine Fisheries Service.

Customer Reviews:

good condition but slow.......2006-08-17

The book arrived in great condition. Better than discribed. It took a lot longer than any other place I have used on amazon.

4 1/2* Turtles Emerge!.......2004-12-10

This is a beautifully illustrated story of "Jiro-San," the supposedly "strange" older man who sweeps the beach, listens to birds, and waits mysteriously for something from the sea. Taro thinks Jiro-San is "old and wise," but his sister Yuko considers him "weird." Jiro-san enlists the boy's help in sweeping the beach, and, for a moment, he wonders whether Taro was right about the "old" man. However, Jiro-San explains that his sea friends won't swim to this beach if they could get hurt on the scattered garbage.

Taro and Jiro-San explore the inner bay, and in a series of striking tonal illustrations (one is mostly purples, another blues, and yet rich with another browns and yellows), the two see many wonders: Dolphins, swordfish, and a whale.

"'Are they your old friends?' Taro asked."
"`They're friends,' said Jiro-San, `but not the old friends I meant. Maybe they will come tomorrow.'"

Finally, Yuko joins the man and Taro, and they see an approaching shape: "It was huge and bobbed up and down on the water like an enormous cork. At last, the children could see what it was-a turtle!" The next few pages show the huge turtle laying her eggs; eight weeks later, hundreds hatch from under the sand and crawl towards the beach. Yuko finally agrees with her brother that this is a wise man indeed-"full of wonderful secrets." A one-page afterward ("About Sea Turtles") explains the breeding of young loggerhead turtles, and the need for protecting them.

Although I enjoyed the book very much, especially Nilesh Mistry's vivid and imaginative pictures, I felt just a little disappointed at its conclusion. Both the last picture (the turtles scurrying to the sea in an almost abstract pattern) and the text (the realization that Jiro-San is wise, not "crazy") seem slightly anticlimactic, especially after the preceding excitement. Still, the book has excellent and unique pictures, a nicely accomplished intergenerational theme, and exciting depictions of various ocean animals. The story appears to take place in Japan, but the setting is tangential to the story.

Enchanting story, beautiful pictures!.......2003-12-13

Why is Jiro-San sweeping the beach?
My 8 year old son loves turtles and he loves this book. We enjoyed it together as a read-aloud and now he reads it over and over to himself. The pictures are breath-taking with rich colors and really bring the story to life. Mystery and wonder abound as a wise old man becomes friends with a boy and his sister.

Average customer rating:

Great counting book
Turtle Splash! Countdown at the Pond
Language booster
Count on this one!
Count on this one!

Turtle Splash! Countdown at the Pond

Manufacturer: Greenwillow
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Baby-3 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

Turtles | Animals | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0060294620

Book Description

It's a peaceful day at
the pond as ten timid
turtles bask in the sun.
But wait!
A bullfrog leaps, a
rabbit rustles, deer
appear, a chickadee
chirps, and
ten
nine
eight
seven
six
five
four
three
two
one
by one
the turtles dive
into the water.
Splash!

Customer Reviews:

Great counting book.......2004-05-04

In this book ten turtles are sitting on a log, but one by one, they each jump into the water when startled by other creatures of the forest, like bullfrogs, ducks, and deer. The story rhymes, and has a lot of alliteration. At the end of the book is a reference section with short informative descriptions of the animals mentioned in the text. This is great for parents who are faced with follow up questions after reading the book. The story, with its countdown plot, makes a great wind-down at bed time. It has about 60 words.

Turtle Splash! Countdown at the Pond.......2002-10-16

Turtle Splash! Countdown at the Pond is the story of a day in the life of ten Eastern Painted Turtles. The basic premise of the book is learning the numbers one thru ten. The book begins with "Ten timid turtles, lounging in a line. Startled by a bullfrog...Then there are nine." Various creatures continue to disturb the turtles. One by one their numbers dwindle. The story concludes with all ten turtles reunited for the night. The numbers one thru ten are then reviewed. Falwell includes 2 pages of ecological information at the end of the story. Information is included about all of the wildlife mentioned in the book.
The artwork in this book is striking. Each page contains a striking mixed media collage. The leaf prints and birch bark leave a realistic impression of life at the pond. The various animals depicted appear very lifelike. The Eastern Painted Turtles are especially well depicted. Several collages provide a clue to the next animal that the turtles will encounter. A rabbit is seen in the background on the page featuring the bullfrog. Part of the red squirrel's tale is seen on the page featuring the rabbit. A glimpse of the fawn's back is seen on the page featuring the red squirrel. The book also includes instructions on how to recreate Falwell's leaf prints.

Language booster.......2002-05-17

My grandson loves this book! He likes to count the turtles, find the animals, and make all the animal sounds. He's even noticing the lively verbs and adjectives and has used them when he talks!
The artwork is very attractive and textural. A wonderful book.

Count on this one!.......2001-10-21

This beautiful counting book is a great introduction to nature as well. The bright collage illustrations are rich with texture and detail, and the perky text is fun to read to kids while they find clues to the next animal hidden in the pictures. There are information pages in the back that provide more interesting facts about each animal ( helpful to parents,too--I didn't know that turtles wintered over in the mud at the bottom of the pond!) and even an arts and crafts page that shows an easy way for children to make leaf prints.

Count on this one!.......2001-10-21

Jabuti the Tortoise: A Trickster Tale from the Amazon

Average customer rating:

An accidental discovery
ok
Can the Vulture get the better of Jabuti the Tortoise? No.
Marvelous artwork enhances this trickster tale

Jabuti the Tortoise: A Trickster Tale from the Amazon
Gerald McDermott
Manufacturer: Voyager Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
Similar Items:

ASIN: 0152053743

Amazon.com

Another installment in Gerald McDermott's wise and whimsical trickster series, Jabutí the Tortoise tells the tale of the Amazon jungle's shiny-shelled mischief-maker. Although Jabutí doesn't come across as the most clever trickster around in this particular retelling (he's duped by that crabby old Vulture and ends up getting bailed out by the King of Heaven), the colorful pipe-player and his songs are clearly well loved. Well, by everybody but his victims, that is: "Jaguar could remember when Jabutí tricked him into chasing his own tail," and "Tapir could remember when Jabutí tricked him into a tug-of-war with Whale." But we do get to learn how Tortoise's shell became cracked, and why Toucan, Macaw, and Hummingbird boast such brilliant colors.

Not the most notable entry in this region-by-region series, but beautiful and boldly colored nonetheless. Kids who aren't immediately hooked by Jabutí's story will likely still get drawn in by McDermott's vibrant colors and straightforward compositions of simply shaped jungle creatures set against a bright pink dawn. (Ages 4 to 8) Paul Hughes

Book Description

Jabutí's shell was smooth and shiny, and the songs he played on his flute were sweet. But his music was a reminder, too, of the mischievous pranks Jabutí sometimes played. When a concert takes place in heaven, Vulture offers to fly Jabutí there . . . all the while plotting a trick of his own.

Customer Reviews:

An accidental discovery.......2007-08-05

The only reason we read this book is because my girl liked the colors and the turtle on the cover.

At first I didn't think much of the story but it grew on me.

Jabuti is a gifted flute player who has a penchant for playing pranks. He tricked Jaguar into chasing his tale, he tricked lizard into giving him a ride on his back and he tricked Tapir into having a tug-of-war with an orca.

His music is well loved especially by the birds who will sing with him. Well except Vulture who can not sing and is jealous of Jabuti.

One day the birds are summoned by the King of Heaven to sing, rejoice and receive his blessing. Jabuti sees the birds fly and wants to go and play as well. Vulture sees his chance for revenge. He offers to fly Jabuti and when they are high enough Vulture suddenly flips and Jabuti falls and crashes below breaking his shell.

The King of Heaven spots Vulture and asks where is Jabuti. Vulture does not reply. The rest of the birds are sent to find jabuti.

Toucan, Macaw and Hummingbird find him and patch his shell.

Jabuti plays them a thank you song and as a reward; Toucan gets a red and yellow beak, Macaw gets orange feathers, and Hummingbid gets an emerald green belly.

Jabuti goes on playing in the Jungle where the animals likes his music; except of course Vulture who still can not sing.

As I mentioned this story grew on me but my daughter liked it outright. She especially likes the illustrations and will not say no for it to be a bedtime story.

ok.......2007-03-28

Jabuti is a talented tortoise. He lives in the Amazon rain forest. He can play his flute well but brags too much to his fellow animals. There is a concert in heaven and vulture offers to fly Jabuti there. Find out how the vulture gets revenge!

Can the Vulture get the better of Jabuti the Tortoise? No........2004-06-03

I have been tracking down trickster tales from around the world and it is always fascinating to see what animals in different cultures are seen as the sources of mischievous pranks. "Jabuti the Tortoise: A Trickster Tale from the Amazon" is about the central figure in the tribal lore of the Amazon rain forest. He might have short legs and be slow, but he is portrayed in stories as being virtually invincible because he is so clever he is able to outwit his larger foes. Of course, the tales about Jabuti are really about the follies of human beings.

In this story retold and illustrated by Gerald McDermott all of the creatures of the rain forest listen to the songs that Jabuti plays on his flute. But for some of the animals Jabuti's song sounds sour because they recall the prank that Jabuti played on them in the past. My one complaint about this story is that I get the feeling that McDermott is referring to real trickster tales about Jabuti in these passing references and I would really like to hear how Jabuti got the Jaguar to chase his own tail and the rest of these tales.

The point of this particular story is that there was one animal who was jealous of Jabuti, and that was the Vulture. Looking for an opportunity to eat the little tortoise the Vulture gets his opportunity when all the birds of the air were invited to sing for the King of Heaven at a festival. Jabuti wanted to go and play his flute as well and Vulture sees his chance to get the better of the tortoise. Actually, this story is about the trickster, but except for the flashbacks of the first section it is really about the attempt of the Vulture to trick the trickster.

As is often the case with many of these ancient myths and fables, there is a practical side to the story in that it explains why something in nature is the way that it is. As always, McDermott provides brightly colored illustrations (in which the backgrounds are always pink). Other trickster tales by McDermott include "Zomo the Rabbit" A Trickster Tale from West Africa," "Raven: A Trickster Tale from the Pacific Northwest," and "Coyote: A Trickster Tale from the American Southwest," all of which serve as fitting introductions to the universal character of the trickster.

Marvelous artwork enhances this trickster tale.......2002-05-28

"Jabuti the Tortoise: A Trickster Tale from the Amazon" is told and illustrated by Gerald McDermott. It opens with the title character playing his flute. Jabuti wants to play his instrument at a festival for the King of Heaven, but another creature's jealousy leads to conflict.

The fun story is brought to life by McDermott's superb artwork. His brightly colored illustrations have a highly stylized, almost surreal quality that I found very engaging. I loved the pictures of Jabuti, as well as those of the birds, trees, flowers, jaguar, and tapir. Dominated by bright pink and shades of green, the pictures really excite the eye. A charming book.

Average customer rating:
Leopard Tortoise: The Natural History, Captive Care, and Breeding of 'Stigmochelys pardalis' (Turtles of the World, Testudinidae, Number 4)
Richard Fife , and Jerry D Fife
Manufacturer: TTPG/Serpent's Tale NHBD
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Similar Items:

The Guide to Owning a Tortoise

Russian Tortoises (Complete Herp Care)

The Pet Owner's Guide to the Tortoise (Pet Owner's Guide S.)

ASIN: 0963813064

Product Description

Presents an insight into the captive care and breeding of the magnificent Leopard Tortoises by expert breeders, Richard and Jerry Fife. Provides detailed information for indoor and outdoor enclosures, diet, breeding and reproduction, care of young tortoises, and health information. 98 full-color photographs, and map.

Books:

Books Index

Books Home

Recommended Books