SNAKES

Addressing new readers in this mesmerizing follow-up to Spiders: Biggest! Littlest! (2004), veteran science writer Markle sticks to short, matter-of-fact sentences, easy language, and such high-profile topics as extremes of size, natural prey, fangs and jaws and skin shedding. Accompanied by a set of riveting close-up photos, including views of an African Rock Python downing an entire gazelle, six people holding up a monster described as a “young Reticulated Python,” and several looks down the throats of various vipers, this should find a ready audience of vicarious thrill-seekers. However, it includes enough factual content to leave budding naturalists pleased and informed, too. (map, glossary) (Nonfiction. 7-9)