Crocodile's Tears

Gr 2—4—A picture book about endangered animals in Africa and the importance of protecting the environment. Rhino is curious about why Crocodile is crying. Tickbird doesn't want to ask him because crocodiles are dangerous and suggests that they ask Golden Eagle, who can fly high and see farther. He sends them to another animal and so on and so on, and all of the responses relate to the effects of human encroachment on their habitat. They finally decide to ask Crocodile himself about his weeping. And in perfect form, he explains that it's one of the things crocodiles do to keep their eyes moist—and then eats Rhino (it's another thing crocodiles do), only to spit him out on the last spread. The illustrations are lovely. The animals loom large and dominate the pages with little detail, emphasizing the grandness of each encounter. Unfortunately, the story slows down in the middle because there are so many animals to consult. In addition, the ecological theme is heavy-handed, but still could be lost on younger audiences who do not understand the concept. An author's note explains Beard's reason for the setting and the animals he chose. A beautiful book, with an important message, but one that goes on a bit too long.—Lia Carruthers, Roxbury Public Library, Succasunna, NJ