Sisters & Brothers: Sibling Relationships in the Animal World by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page

Genre IV

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Jenkins, Steve and Robin Page. 2008. Sisters and Brothers: Sibling Relationships in the Animal World. Boston. Houghton Mifflin Co.. ISBN 9780618375967

2. PLOT SUMMARY
Jenkins and Page reveal the interworkings of relationships among siblings in the wild animal world. They are careful to give children factual information in a narrative format that is interesting and engaging. Readers learn about large, small and unusual animal families and how the siblings’ interaction with each other ensures the survival of the creature. Birthing patterns and dominant genders are explained as well as the role of the animals’ parent.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
In a straight forward style, the authors explain some of the most interesting behaviors of brothers and sisters in the wild. Highlighting each animal in alternating one and two page layouts, the authors use subheadings and eye catching exclamations, statements and alliteration to give the reader clues as to the characteristics of the animal’s family life. The name of each creature is written in bold print within the six to eleven sentences that make up a paragraph of specific facts pertaining to each animal. The language is probably easily understood by most readers in the second grade and above but is not simple. Steve Jenkins is also the illustrator of this book and uses torn paper collages to create the intricate art that accompanies the text so well. The authors have included a two page list of animal facts complete with illustrations that will answer questions readers may have about an animal’s habitat, appetite or size. Additional readings are also listed for readers who wish to find out more about wild animals and their habits but no bibliography is included. The authors attached pictures of themselves with their siblings on the back flap of the book’s jacket which adds a very personal touch readers will enjoy.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Horn Book: "... fascinating animal facts...the new focus allows deeper explorations of the growth and development stages."

Book Links: "Readers will love sharing this...The sibling focus is a way to include a wealth of fascinating science."

School Library Journal: “Realistic . . . collages form a visual lure . . . eye-catching, and with an interesting approach to the animal world.”



5. CONNECTIONS
*Have students create a torn paper collage of themselves and any siblings they may have. Only children can use cousins or friends in place of siblings.
*Allow students to discuss any birth patterns they may beware of within their family tree. Multiple births, rare births of females/males, high rates of births in certain months can all be considered and documented on a class graph created on the computer and displayed for observations.