North America boasts a surprising number of rainforests, including El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico, Olympic National Forest in Washington State, Chugach and Tongass National Forests in Alaska, and the forests in Hawaii, which are home to an enormous variety of plants and animals. Rainforests: An Activity Guide takes kids through the common layers of the rainforest, from the forest floor to above the enclosed canopy. Their journey continues through the different types of rainforests as they are introduced to plants, animals, and people around the world, including those from the temperate rainforests of North America to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America. Rainforest-inspired activities include making a West African yam festival gourd rattle, building a model of an Alaskan totem pole, and creating a Japanese Wayang-kuilt , or shadow puppet. Kids are encouraged to make a difference and become active supporters of the rainforests no matter where they live. Grade 2-6-A potpourri of resources and activity ideas. After several chapters devoted to the different layers of the tropical forest, Castaldo takes readers on a round-the-world tour, including a visit to the temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. She includes some folktales among the sections of information on plants, animals, and cultures. The activities are varied and interesting, ranging from science projects to crafts to recipes. Many require adult assistance. Black-and-white drawings break up the blocks of text. The book would serve as a valuable resource for adults working with elementary students, but the subtitle and introduction suggest that it can be read independently by young children. However, the vocabulary and complex sentences may be daunting for beginning readers. Books, videos, and Web sites listed as additional resources for each chapter include materials ranging from picture books to adult nonfiction and Web sites from conservation organizations to commercial enterprises. Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc. “Lets students explore what makes this endangered environment unique and worth protecting.” — Learning magazine “The author’s passion for rainforests is contagious.” —Science Books & Films Nancy F. Castaldo is the author of Deserts, Oceans , Rainy Day Play, Sunny Days and Starry Nights, and Winter Day Play! Used Book in Good Condition