(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Mark Hallett. This authoritative book is packed with information about wildcats. Organized geographically, the coverage is worldwide, with plentiful details about different habitats and behaviors. Throughout, Becker shows awareness of and respect for the creatures' place in their greater ecosystems, concluding with conservation organizations devoted to them. Well-chosen photographs and drawings, from prehistoric miacids to contemporary wildcats, illustrate the text. Websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Frieda F. Bostian

(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Mark Hallett. This volume examines the history of horses from prehistoric to modern species. Characteristics, origins, and range of wild horses throughout time and across the world are discussed. The well-documented and informative text and the many photographs and drawings will be appreciated by horse enthusiasts. Information about preserving endangered species is appended. Websites. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Mark Hallett. This oversize volume introduces the Smilodon fatalis, a saber-toothed cat that flourished in North America until roughly ten thousand years ago. The competently written text describes the Smilodon's physiology (which included seven-inch teeth), discusses their hunting techniques, and speculates on what caused their extinction. The accompanying color illustrations lack clarity and impact. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) K-3 Illustrated by Mark Hallett. Beginning with an account of a 1994 discovery of bear bones and wall paintings in a French cave, this oversize book introduces the cave bear, which flourished from 300,000 to 10,000 years ago. The intriguing text touches on the cave bear's physiology and way of life and speculates on how the animal interacted with humans. Some of the accompanying color illustrations have a muddy quality. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta

(4) 4-6 Illustrated by Mark Hallett. Beginning with a discussion of the Jarkov Mammoth, recently unearthed in a frozen state, the volume also describes mammoth physiology and way of life, traces its family tree, and speculates on the possibility of bringing these extinct creatures back to life through cloning. The capably written text is stronger than the serviceable color illustrations, but the book remains an intriguing introduction to mammoths. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Peter D. Sieruta