BABY BEAR, BABY BEAR, WHAT DO YOU SEE?

In its fourth—and billed as final—iteration, this primary level Q-and-A introduces ten North American mammals, from red fox and blue heron to rattlesnake, mule deer and finally (unspecified, but possibly Kodiak) Mama Bear. As always, Carle’s spread-filling painted-paper constructs capture a true sense of the animals’ looks, depicting each in a natural pose, gazing invitingly up at young viewers. As with its predecessors, the introduction of new material within a familiar, interactive structure makes a winning formula for keying new and pre-readers into colors, sequences and nature. Martin died in 2004—here’s a fitting close to what will likely remain his most lasting work for children. (Picture book. 3-5)