Library Book: Saguaro Moon: A Desert Journal

by National Geographic Learning

Here is another model nature journal from a naturalist who has been journaling habitats since she was a youngster. In the desert she sees Gila monsters, watches scorpions with a black light and harvests saguaro flowers with a Native American family that helps her see this unique, arid environment with appreciative eyes. The "collage-style" journal features clippings of articles about animals and plants, stories of the Tonoho O'odham, Q&As, her own youthful journal entries, and even her own desert poetry. "Saguaro Moon" is a wonderful way to learn about the desert and also be inspired to keep a nature journal.

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2002

Reviews

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A creative approach for a nature book aimed at the youth market. The author’s paintings are creative and colorful.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being an Arizona native, this book jumped off the library shelf at me. It is written like a journal, with each page in a scrapbook-like format and includes chrarcters named Megan and Mitchell. Throughout the book you read their journal entries as they explore the desert and through them, and it tells the story of how Megan and Mitchell met.

I think this is a really well done book. The author has been a naturalist for years and does a good job of explaining the flora and fauna of the desert, while making it exciting for kids. Additionally, the bright colors and eclectic illustrations really add to the appeal of this book.

[Patty Profitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Author who published three books while a teenager. I would like to read her first book, A Walk in the Rainforest.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good book when teaching about desert biomes. Anecdotes, beautiful illustrations, and factual "articles." To lengthy to be a read-aloud book, however.