Follett Early Learning

Booklist (July 2012 (Vol. 108, No. 21))

Preschool. The baby zoo animals introduced here—including the red panda, golden lion tamarin, and opossum—are more exotic than the puppies and kittens typically found in animal board books. In addition to images of big eyes and long snouts, which are always a crowd-pleaser, the text helps define vocabulary words through interesting typography: in a sentence about the red panda, the word curl arches in a semicircle, and striped appears in alternating shades of black. The text also presents the sounds the babies make, such as the “Growl!” of the cougar. Both educational and kissable, this may well prompt a visit to the zoo.

Kirkus Reviews (July 1, 2012)

Cute and cuddly babies are the star attractions at the zoo. Clear, dynamic photographs showcase each animal tot; their faces dominate the right page, while the left contains text and a smaller, usually adorable full-figure pose. The animals included extend beyond the ordinary choices (golden lion tamarin, red panda). The fairly generic descriptions, conveyed in the animals' voices, include some basic facts selected for child appeal: The red panda uses its tail as a "snuggly" blanket, and the aardvark "snuffl[es]" up ants with its snout, for instance. Occasionally there is a disconnect between photo and text. Two baby cougar cubs are particularly precious as they stare off the page, while the accompanying statement focuses on physicality: "Jumping, climbing, running and swimming--I'm always busy. Catch me if you can!" Typography reflects the activities described; the word "climbing" literally reaches up. Bold backgrounds suit this presentation. Baby Animals: In the Sea shares the same design, focusing on both undersea critters and shoreline animals. Not a good choice for depth, but toddlers will be hard-pressed to find more adorable animal tykes anywhere. (Board book. 1-2)