Just Like Us! Crocs by Bridget Heos, David Clark Published by HMH Books for Young Readers on July 23rd 2019
ISBN: 1328791920
Pages: 32
Goodreads
This colorful picture book compares crocodilians to humans; their family habits, eating habits, communication, parenting styles and general lifestyles. Pen-and-ink and watercolor drawings are mixed with actual photos of the beasts in a humorous attempt at lighthearted comedy.
This book is marketed to K – 3rd graders, intended as a read along experience with an adult. Language and terminology are too difficult for most 3rd graders. Also, some of the text is hand lettered that an average 3rd grade student might find problematic.
I found the jumping from species to species confusing as there is only a brief sentence on the first page identifying the different crocodilians. There is a glossary in the back of the book, but I would have preferred to have those terms being introduced on the page they appeared, in a bubble format perhaps?
The illustrations are aimed at a young audience, but the content and information seem to be more appropriate for an older child. I would welcome this book in my library if I needed books on this topic, as it might be helpful to teachers doing a class project.
Reviewed by Irene Hall, Witherle Public Library, Castine