WILD COLORS

Stunning photography is the highlight of this lavish exploration of color in nature. Each page features a close-up view of a member of the plant or animal kingdom. From the more common zebra and black bear to the lesser-known blue-footed booby and cup fungus, there is a nice balance between the familiar and the novel. The color of each animal or plant is introduced in large type in the target color. A short paragraph follows, giving interesting information about the flora and fauna. For instance, should the blood starfish lose an arm, it can grow one back again; lavender is used to tame lions and tigers; and the macaw has the strongest bite of all birds. The colors presented go beyond the basic Roy G. Biv, encompassing such hues as coral, clear, turquoise, tan, rust, magenta, gold, and chartreuse. Simple enough to entertain, yet providing enough of a stretch to educate, this is one for the bookshelf. (Picture book. 4-7)