New Releases by Diane Swanson

Helps a child understand why it is important to keep his/her teeth and gums clean.

Did you know there are approximately 340 different kinds of hummingbirds, some as light as a penny? These champion acrobats of the sky can beat their wings more than 40 times a second, fly backward and even hover in midair, like helicopters. Since it''s much easier to hear hummingbird wings than see them, just follow the hum to find the birds. Includes a table of contents, index, sidebars, and full of extraordinary photography throughout.

Information about these large reptiles and their ancestors is presented.

Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, habitat, and natural defenses of the North American porcupine, the second largest rodent on the continent.

Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, habitat, and life cycle of the skunk, a member of the weasel family.

Grade level: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, p, e, i.

Photographs and simple text show animals engaged in play, while questions invite the reader to notice and identify particular traits, such as whether an orangutan''s arms or legs are longer.

Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, and habitat of rabbits and hares, some of which can run at speeds of forty-five miles per hour or more. The world of rabbits and hares is a world of keen senses. Their ears can turn to pick up faraway sounds. Their eyes can watch for enemies in all directions. And their twitching noses have 100 million sensors to pick up scents--six times more than we have!

"Reassuring words and colour photos help familiarize kids with tools and techniques they may encounter at the dentist" Cf. Our choice, 2003.

About the series: Each book in the Welcome to the World of Series introduces children to wildlife through color photographs, lively description and amazing facts.

Photographs and simple text show how various animals keep hidden and safe.

Describes the physical characteristics and behavior of snakes.

Describes the physical characteristics and behavior of the octopus, the smartest of the world''s spineless animals.

Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, and habitats of sharks.

Explains why animals have different headgear, from elk who use their heavy antlers to battle other elks, to male unicornfish who grow horns to attract females.

"Engaging text and lively illustrations help children learn how to become enthusiastic science watchdogs" Cf. Our choice, 2002.

Photographs and simple text show animals resting and sleeping.

A coyote''s keen senses help it survive. With eyes that can spot the smallest movement, ears that can hear the faintest rustle, and legs designed for racing, it''s no wonder some coyotes live to be more than 10 years old. These adaptable canines communicate by howling, and those who live in cities even respond to the sirens of fire trucks. This book explores the lives of clever coyotes at work and at play.About the series: Each book in the Welcome to the World of Series introduces children to wildlife through color photographs, lively description and amazing facts.

Photographs taken at a children''s hospital and doctor''s office showing instruments and machines children are likely to encounter during their visit.

Describes the physical characteristics and behavior of snakes.

These are the latest titles in this popular series that introduces children to North American wildlife through color photographs and fascinating text. Young readers will be enchanted by America`s smallest bird, the fearless hummingbird. Its resting heart rate is an astonishing 480 beats per minute and, unlike any other bird, it can fly backwards. Few animals capture the imagination like wild horses. There are nearly 50,000 wild horses still roaming western North America. This book reveals their origins, their complex family systems, and how they live together off the land.

Photographs help children identify common fast-moving animals, such as dolphins, eagles, and cheetahs, and guide them in pointing out the mechanisms that aid in the animals'' swiftness.

Feet are neat! They jump, they climb, they swim, they dance. Animal paws have claws that dig and scratch any itch that they can reach. A dog uses them to hold a bone in place or get a person''s attention. The squirrel uses its small, sharp feet to scamper up a tree and race along a branch--or grab a nut to eat. Raccoons'' paws are so nimble that they can pluck cherries, husk corncobs, crack open bird eggs, and feel for clams in a muddy stream. And every animal--humans included--uses its feet to run from danger. Watch them in action, in photos and in drawings, to see just why feet can''t be beat! The author lives in Victoria, British Columbia. 32 pages (all in color), 8 1/2 x 10.

Discusses animal characteristics associated with teeth including grabbing, chomping, and defense display.

Describes the physical characteristics, behavior, and habitat of rabbits and hares, some of which can run at speeds of forty-five miles per hour or more.

Describes physical characteristics, life cycle, habitat, habits etc. 8-12 yrs.

"Which animal is a master of disguise, able to make its skin bumpy or smooth to blend in with the background? An octopus! The latest title in this popular series provides facts about these gentle sea dwellers" Cf. Our choice, 2001.

Focuses on animal tails and all the amazing things for which they are used, including balance, communication, and defense.

"With colour photographs and captivating text, this series offers a close-up look at various animals" Cf. Our choice, 1999-2000.