MODULE 4: SNAKES

BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Simon, Seymour. 1992. SNAKES. London: Harper Collins. ISBN 0060225300


PLOT SUMMARY:
This informational book slithers its way through one of the most feared yet fascinating reptile groups, the snake. Snake habitat and physiology are introduced first. Next, snake locomotion, growth patterns, food choices, senses, and skin are addressed. Mating is the next topic included. The basic snake mating process is discussed which leads into a brief overview of snake maturation from egg to young snake as well as snake parenting and snake enemies. Lastly, the topic of snake behavior and defense is investigated. Snakes use some harmless and some harmful defensive behaviors to save themselves from perceived threats. Poisonous snake families and subfamilies are a large portion of this section of text. Information about the characteristics of poisonous snakes are outlined and explored. The last paragraph encourages acceptance and appreciation for the snake family.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
When one first spots a book in the library, the first thing that is seen is the cover. The cover of SNAKES has a “WOW factor”. It is a full color photograph of a young green tree python. The snake covers the entire front cover and appears to be staring at the reader. This is a dare to enter the world of snakes.
This informational book is not just a book of lists and facts about snakes. While the book is not divided into chapters, one can sense a flow in the information as the book is read. There is a fantastic flow from topic to topic throughout the book. The reader moves seamlessly through a discussion of many physical attributes of snakes. It is not a choppy list-like paragraph. The text is very well organized. The only reference aids that are provided for the reader are photographs of snakes. There are no maps or other reference guides.
Mr. Simon chose to use real photos for the illustration of this book. The photographs selected are color 8.5” x 11” size. The snakes in the photographs are detailed and close up. They have a life-like quality surrounding them. They are not add-ins on a page. They are a full page, treated as an equal with the text. The photograph is described on the accompanying page. The photographs and the text complement each other tremendously.
As one sits down and reads SNAKES, one can sense the awe and respect the author has for them. The information presented is done so in a way that would interest young readers as well as intermediate ones. The vocabulary in the book is simplistic yet subject-appropriate. Concepts and facts are not overly simplified in an effort to reach younger readers. Readers learn the difference between oviparous and ovoviviparous snakes without being insulted with silly pictures or low level vocabulary introduction. One can use context to verify the meaning of these two words. The snakes do not come to life in a series of pictures and talk to the readers. There is no anthropomorphism. The snakes, although interesting, are not given human qualities. No snake is seen wearing clothing or sitting in a chair. They maintain their animal status.
Mr. Simon avoids something very important in the world of Snake politics-demonization. Generally, snakes are not a well loved animal. They are not cute or cuddly in most cases. However, Mr. Simon chooses to focus on snakes attributes in a positive way. Snake and human vertebrae counts are compared thus realizing that snakes and people have something in common. Snakes’ skin is not described as slimy but smooth and thick. Non venomous snakes are discussed prior to presenting the information on poisonous snakes. The information about poisonous snakes is not scary or disturbing. It is factual but not over dramatized. Hopefully when the reader has finished the text, s/he would realize that poisonous snakes are not bountiful and that they are not the aggressor toward humans. Perhaps some fears can be relieved.
The information in the book seems to be accurate. The book is full of readable and interesting facts about snakes. The text does encourage wonder and respect for these legless creatures. Despite the appearance of factual information, there is no evidence in the book to this end. There is no bibliography presented; no index of resources or terms is included. Perhaps this book is deemed as accurate because of the high esteem in which the author is held. Mr. Simon could rely on his reputation and credibility regarding the authenticity of the information offered.
Overall, this book was an enjoyable read. Readers will walk away with a new respect and interest in snakes. They are truly amazing animals. Most Hollywood movies don’t present this concept; I am glad the book SNAKES does.

REVIEW EXCERPTS:
From SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “An attractive, well-written easy reader…Make a place for SNAKES in primary-level nonfiction collections.”

CONNECTIONS:
Additional information about North American snake species
Snakes of North America

Texas Junior Naturalist Website—Native Texas snakes poster order form
Texas Junior Naturalists Snake Poster

Information regarding the snakes native to Texas
Snakes of Texas

Seymour Simon Website
Seymour Simon: Award-Winning Children's Science Author

Students will create an accordion book about various types of snakes. One side will contain information obtained from this book and other sources. The opposite side would include an illustration.

Students will complete an author study on Seymour Simon and his nonfiction texts. Older students can select a book and create an activity to teach to younger students.

Students would research the myths about snakes-poisonous and nonpoisonous—and write a humorous play presenting the information to other students and/or parents.