School Library Journal Review

Gr 2-5-Be they interested in ever-popular dogs and cats or more exotic creatures, these guides will help readers make thoughtful decisions about whether or not they are ready for pet ownership. Starting with a comparison of the domesticated animal to its wild relatives, each volume discusses the variety of breeds, sizes, and temperaments. Detailed instructions explain how to best prepare to adopt and care for an animal, including information on diet, exercise, and symptoms that require medical attention. Abundant color photographs with captions show ethnically diverse children and numerous creatures. Subheadings and text boxes break up the narratives into manageable chunks. The volumes conclude with quizzes and checklists, reinforcing owners' responsibilities. Broader in scope than the "A Pet's Life" series (Heinemann), this offering is a solid choice for libraries looking for updates. (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.