The Magic School Bus Presents the Rain Forest

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk ME, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 8, 2015

Review

A simplified introduction to the equatorial rain forest introduces some of the life forms found in Central and South American, Asian and African rain forests. Emphasis is on kid-friendly apes and monkeys, although plants, birds, tree frogs, and insects are included.

Entirely revamped from the 1998 edition, each two page spread introduces a new topic. Some information is inaccurate, with a definition of "rain forest" that eliminates the North American rain forests. The emphasis is on the science, and not the interactions between the children. Full color photographs range from landscape scenes to close-ups. Spot photo captions report detailed facts; most pages include a sidebar or illustrated report from one of Ms. Frizzle's students. A table of contents and glossary will appeal to classroom teachers.

Overall Book Score: good