Reviews

Calling all elementary school teachers and librarians! This is the book to use to introduce wetland ecosystems. The information is completely accurate, the food web information is well researched, and the illustrations are of the highest quality. But these are all features that we educators need to know and appreciate. What the students will appreciate is the great Dr. Seuss-esque rhyming scheme that has the all of the wetland creatures interacting in a complex, lilting cadence. The graphics, by the most talented Jennifer DiRubbio, are fully engaging. This is the fourth book in the Sharing Nature with Children series by Anthony D. Fredericks. Although I haven’t read his other offerings, I can say that if they are of the caliber of this text, they are needed in every elementary school library and classroom. Not only are the writing and artwork outstanding, but included at the end of the story are “Field Notes” that cover all of the organisms mentioned, as well as a list of wetland organizations that can be contacted to learn more. Bravo to a book I proudly read to my own family! (Sharing Nature with Children Series) Highly Recommended.

— Science Books & Films – Kristina Hardwick (Vol 41, No. 5)

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At first , the wetlands appear to be rather plain and empty. Upon a closer look, through the eyes of the author, we find a very busy little kingdom.

Near one cattail in the wetlands, there abounds a multitude of animals from frogs and turtles to backswimmers and muskrats. This book by the same name, Near One Cattail, is a very fun and informative read in a clever poetry format. We learn about seven very different critters that live in the wetlands and also some of their habitats.

The detailed and colorful illustrations enhance the text and we get lost in this wonderful “web of life in this soggy land.” Field Notes offer descriptions for each of the critters, along with a fantastic fact! For instance, did you know that in winter, when water freezes in the wetlands, backswimmers walk upside down under the ice? The author has included some of his favorite resource books for further reading pleasure.

The book is very timely since our wetlands are in danger. More human houses, highways and shopping centers are being built on wetlands.

— Skipping Stones – Beth Erfurth (May-August 2006)