Ostriches

Starred review from January 1, 2020
Grades 2-5 *Starred Review* Hey, kids! Step right up and meet the amazing ostrich! This newest entry in the Superpower Field Guide series extols the awesome workings of this strange-looking bird, emphasizing how its unique physical attributes (Thighs of Thunder! Do-It-All Dino Flaps!) allow it to survive in the harsh African savanna. Previous offerings from author Poliquin and illustrator Frith have celebrated the heroic feats of Moles (2019) and Beavers (2018). This new guide follows their established format, with fact-filled and entertaining text supported by pictures reminiscent of vintage comic books. Frith's ink, pencil, and wax crayon illustrations range from simple line drawings to delicately detailed close-ups of feathers and eyelashes, and occasional splashes of muted colors reinforce the bygone pulp-fiction vibe. There's lots of technical information (the puff-and-squash respiration system), occasional activities (after learning about the "Colossal Orbs of Telescopic Vision," readers recreate an ostrich's line of sight using a grid), gratifyingly gruesome descriptions of ostrich-generated mayhem ("Toe Claws of Death!" "Two-Toed Torpedoes!"), and noteworthy trivia (Johnny Cash was almost killed by his pet ostrich). Kids will effortlessly absorb lessons about ostriches and ecosystems, and researchers will appreciate the comparison charts, glossary, and resources for further inquiry.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)