OUTSIDE AND INSIDE BIG CATS

Accompanying more of the frankly naturalistic photos that distinguish her “Outside and Inside” series, Markle describes inner and outer physical features common to cats of all sizes, along with variations in coloring, hunting techniques, and family behavior, then closes by inviting viewers to take second looks at the pictures for certain telling details they might have missed. Though house cats put in occasional appearances, the focus is really on lions, tigers, cougars, cheetahs, and leopards, all of which are captured in the uncommonly close-up illustrations killing and eating prey, hanging out with family, or just posing. This enters a crowded field, but confirmed fans of the ever-photogenic big cats will be absorbed by both the pictures and the informative, matter-of-fact presentation. (Nonfiction. 7-9)