The illustrated encyclopaedia of dangerous animals by Sami Bayly

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Lothian Children's Books, 2020. ISBN: 9780734420015.
(Age: 8+). Highly recommended. The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Dangerous Animals is a stunning new companion to The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Ugly Animals written and illustrated by Sami Bayly. Dangerous animals provide a fascination for both adults and children everywhere. The author has presented more than sixty of what may be the most deadly and dangerous animals from places all over the world in a beautifully illustrated and easy to read non-fiction book. The Contents pages show a miniature image of the animal with its name underneath. Each animal is presented on a double page spread with information on one half and an illustration with amazing detail on the other. The scientific name of the animal is given plus a pronunciation guide. From the headings of description, danger factor, conservation status, diet, location/habitat and fun facts the reader will learn more about the dangerous animal under discussion and how it has adapted to life today. There are some Australian surprises in the book - the magpie features as it can attack humans in breeding season, the Red Kangaroo is known for its boxing technique against both humans and other kangaroos and the Bulldog Ant exhibits aggressive behaviour and its venom can paralyse smaller creatures. Other more unique animals included are the Alligator Snapping Turtle, Geography Cone Snail, Human Botfly, Kissing Bug, and the Oriental Rat Flea.
This book would be a welcome addition to any library and a perfect resource for student research when teachers introducing or revisiting the information report genre.
There are detailed teacher resources available. Themes: Dangerous Animals.
Kathryn Beilby

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