Looking for some new books to celebrate Earth Day in April? Look no further. A Place for Turtles by Melissa Stewart and illustrated by Higgins Bond and others in the A Place for… series are perfect choices to increase understanding of environmental issues. 
Starting with the endpapers, which show range maps for 10 common species, the book is full of information about turtles. In a series of two-page spreads, Melissa Stewart introduces the reader to a problem that turtles face and what is being done about it, using simple and easy to comprehend language. Some ideas for protecting turtles are as straightforward as keeping your dog on a leash when hiking or using cloth bags rather than plastic ones.
The illustrations by Higgins Bond are exceptionally bright and enticing. Many of the illustrations draw young readers in by showing children engaging in activities to assist turtles.
The reality of our world today is that many animals are in danger. Unlike some books about threatened and endangered animals that can be depressing to read, this book remains positive by emphasizing what actions can help mitigate the threats. Turtles and turtle lovers both will surely benefit from it.
See related turtle activities and information at Growing with Science.
Ages: 6-10
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (March 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1561456934
ISBN-13: 978-1561456932
Book was provided by publisher for review purposes.
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