Doug Wechsler finds inspiration in the world's jungles, swamps, and seashores, as well as his own backyard. By showcasing nature's wonders and its humorous side, he aims to motivate readers to deepen their interest in their natural surroundings. As a wildlife biologist and photographer, Wechsler traveled globally to capture images of birds, revealing the beauty and often humorous aspects of the natural world. His work encourages a greater appreciation and exploration of the environment around us.
Focusing on the unique adaptations of animals for obtaining oxygen, this inquiry-based book invites young readers to explore nature and evolution in an engaging way. It encourages curiosity and critical thinking, making it a standout in STEM literature. With contributions from a celebrated nature photographer and writer, the book offers captivating insights into the bizarre and exotic strategies animals have developed for survival.
In jaw-dropping photos, Doug Wechsler captures the life cycle of the American toad from egg to tadpole to adult. To get these images, Wechsler sat in a pond wearing waders, went out night after night in search of toads, and cut his own glass to make a home aquarium. The resulting photos reveal metamorphosis in extreme close-up as readers have never seen it before. Budding naturalists will be transfixed by this unprecedented peek into the secrets of tadpole transformation. A book that encourages observation and conservation and may start some young biologists off on their own lifelong quests to understand animals — Kirkus Reviews, starred review A fascinating look at toad development — Booklist, starred review Suitable for libraries needing to bolster their early nonfiction collections — School Library Journal A remarkable visual chronicle of an easily overlooked creature — Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books Chicago Public Library’s 2017 Best of the Best Books selection 2018 Green Earth Book Honor for Children’s nonfiction