  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 08/01/2014 This handsome book introduces parrots through realistic paintings and simply written text. On each double-page spread, a full-page picture illustrating a particular species faces a white page that identifies the bird and briefly comments on the characteristics, behaviors, and habitats of parrots. The lengthy back matter includes a small reproduction of each plate, accompanied by a paragraph that offers more information about the species of parrot shown. For instance, plate 18 shows a green bird sitting on a log. The text identifies it as a kakapo and reads, “It is important to protect parrots and the places where they live.” The back matter then discusses why parrots are endangered and offers facts about the kakapo. Written by a former teacher and illustrated by a painter educated in wildlife biology, this book presents basic information along with varied, beautiful watercolor paintings. A colorful addition to the long-running About . . . series. - Copyright 2014 Booklist. School Library Journal - 08/01/2014 Gr 1–3—Eighteen species of parrots are featured in a series of attractive spreads. While young bird enthusiasts will appreciate the simple text of the book, with only a single sentence per page, older readers will enjoy the in-depth information found toward the end of the book. For instance, a spread featuring a kakapo reads simply, "It is important to protect parrots and the places where they live," while the corresponding paragraph at the back of the book goes into more depth, describing the kakapos as flightless parrots that live on the ground, leaving them vulnerable to cats and rats introduced by humans, resulting in their near extinction. The author offers solid material, including food for thought about the pet parrot industry and the risk of disappearing habitats. The watercolor paintings are real showstoppers—the parrots stand out like jewels against muted landscapes. With this volume, the Sills add another respectful examination of wildlife to their noteworthy repertoire.—Alyson Low, Fayetteville Public Library, AR - Copyright 2014 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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