Cnameleons Are Cool

Author: Martin Jenkins Title: Chameleons Are Cool
Book Genre: Informational Book Publishing Info: Candlewick Press, 29 pp

Summary: The book brings to life the appealing aspects of one of the 4,000 lizards around the world, the chameleon. The book uses great illustration and data to enlighten young readers. The young boy narrating the story talks about the chameleon being the coolest reptile in the world because of their different sizes, features, and appetites. This is a great informational book that will attract young readers!

Personal Rating: ****

Rationale: Well-written, great illustrations, accurate info, text is clear and interesting

Reading Level: 4.8 Interest Level: K-3rd

Thematic Areas: Chameleon’s, reptiles, habitat, survival

Subject Content: Science, Art, Geography

Possible problems or difficulties: N/A

Possible uses in the classroom: Art: In the book there are many physical characteristics mentioned about the chameleon. Have the students list some of these characteristics on the board and them have them draw their own chameleon, including the characteristics.
For a geography lesson, have the students locate Madagascar, Africa, where the chameleons come from. After they have located it on the map have them use the Internet to find one small fact about this area and share in a discussion circle.
For a Science lesson on reptiles use this book to read aloud to the class before starting the unit. I think this book will really get their attention.