Informational Book: Actual Size

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Type: Informational Book

Evaluation of the book:  

As a nonfiction book, Actual Size does a good job of not bogging down the reader with too many written facts. The text is composed of precise and minimal language that allows the illustrations to be the focal point of each page. The text states as minimally as possible the facts about each animal then allows the illustrations to highlight those facts. For those more keen on textual descriptions, Actual Size fills its final pages with simple paragraph descriptions of each animal. These paragraphs are simple yet interesting additions to the main text. 

Actual Size is probably most well-known for the size of its illustrations. Each illustration is a life size representation of a real and amazing animal. The life-size illustrations reinforce the text of the book. It’s one thing to read that a great white shark’s teeth are 4 inches long; it’s completely another thing to turn the page and be faced with a 4 inch long picture of a shark’s tooth. The reader of this book cannot help but understand how truly amazing each animal depicted is. 

Finally, Actual Size is a nonfiction informational book. The illustrations in Actual Size are set against a plain, white background, making the size of each image the focal point of each page. These images set against a white background establish the informational mood of the book and reinforce the information provided in the book. The simple background ensures that the reader understands the information provided; the beautiful cut paper collage images ensure that the reader wants to read the book.

Response: 

I myself learned a lot reading Actual Size. The images brought home how incredible each animal is; the illustration of the shark’s teeth shocked me and made me hope never to meet a great white in real life! Overall, I found the marriage of the text and images to make reading the book both informative and enjoyable. The descriptions were clear and minimal; the illustrations were beautiful and informative. This book is perfect for any child who is interested in animals; it’s a good introduction to animals that go beyond the farmyard. I enjoyed reading Actual Size immensely and learned some interesting facts. I could easily see myself using it for animal-themed projects and lessons as a future teacher or librarian.

Conclusion: 

Actual Size is a beautiful life-size portrayal of some extraordinary animals. An excellent nonfiction book, Actual Size is perfect for any child interested in animals, or any classroom that is studying different types of animals. The beautiful pictures bring the text to life and help children (and adults!) realize just how incredible each animal is.  

APA Style Reference: 

Jenkins, S. (2004). Actual Size. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin.