"What Do You Do With A Tail Like This?"

This is one of my kids all time FAVORITE nonfiction books. It is written by Steve Jenkins (also illustrated by Steve) and Robin Page. They are a husband and wife team who have collaborated on numerous intriguing books dealing the the interesting lives, habitats and facts regarding animals. Additionally, this book won a Caldecott Honor Award so needless to say, the illustrations are outstanding.


The book is an interactive, guessing type book in which page by page, the authors focus on enlarged images of the animals noses, eyes, mouths, tails and ears. Children are naturally motivated to "guess" the animal in which the appropriate body part belongs. The pages to follow show the animal in its entirety; fun and often mesmerizing information is presented in regards to how the animal uses the particular body part.

This book is useful when introducing the five senses as well as a way to encourage children to think critically about the vast ways in which they are alike or unlike animals. The book can also be used as a starting places for further study in regards to animal habits and habitats.


Children of all ages will appreciate this book. I have personally shared this book with preschoolers, as well as second and fourth graders. Kids LOVE quirky and interesting facts....this book does not disappoint.

Steve Jenkins and Robin Page have a new release entitled, "Actual Size." In this book, the actual size of animals are presented in a way in which children can relate. For example, the eye of a giant squid is actually the size of a basketball....only the eye is shown but it is an easy way for children to imagine how big the rest of the animal must be! Very Cool!