Kingfisher Animal Encyclopedia (4th Edition)

So, why add another animal encyclopedia to this section when there are already two here from other well-known publishers? Well, this one is just different, and different in some very appealing ways! First of all, it is hardcover, which makes it a little more durable (yet more expensive) than the DK encyclopedia. But the primary reason for the difference is in its organization, which makes it more navigable next to a zoology or biology course. Although a similar number of animals are covered here as in the DK volume (about 2,000), they are more extensively organized, as you can see if you check out our table of contents images online. The breakdown mirrors common biological classifications, including simple animals, cnidarians, flatworms/roundworms, segmented works, mollusks, arachnids, crustaceans, centipedes/millipedes, insects, echinoderms, chordates, cartilaginous fish, bony fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and finally, mammals. Within each chapter, two-page spreads examine one sub-group in depth, such as "catfish and electric eels" in the bony fish chapter. If you flip to that spread, you'll find a short introduction to the sub-group, followed by a handful of examples of specific species within that group presented in short blocks of text with some basic information, the scientific name, distribution and size. In comparison, the DK volume is organized alphabetically by general animal group, such as "bats." If you flip to the page(s) on bats, you'll also meet a variety of different bat species, complete with lovely full-color photos similar in quality to what you will find here. Both are excellent resources, and endlessly appealing to browsing as well as use as a reference or curriculum supplement. Your choice may just depend on how you want to use the guide, and which type of organization you prefer. On a side note, while this is from a secular viewpoint, evolution is not covered in any amount of depth here; the emphasis is really on the animals! 320 pgs, hc. Jess