Gorillas by Seymour Simon

1. Bibliography
Simon, Seymour. 2000. GORILLAS. USA: Harper Collins Publishers. ISBN 0060230363

2. Plot Summary
In this detailed book, Simon tells of three different gorillas and their physical make-up and the behavior each one presents. Included in this are their habitats, diet, and daily habits. With the many close up photographs and extensive descriptions readers will have a true understanding of these creatures and the lifestyles.

3. Critical Analysis
Gorillas are interesting creatures, and this is the feeling readers get after learning the facts Simon shares. Between their daily routines, how they raise their young, their family life, and the noises they can make like belching we see the life of a gorilla. In the details given, Simon also shows us that gorillas are not that different from us like their fingerprints and DNA. In addition he includes many attention-grabbing facts like "a gorilla can support their body weight on their knuckles" or "a four-hundred-pound gorilla can eat up to fifty pounds of plants a day." In the photographs provided, mainly close-ups, readers can get a good idea about a gorillas looks, especially their faces. They are oversized and real life that truly enhance the books presentation. Between the comprehensible text and well picked illustrations this book makes for a great read for children all ages.

4. Review Excerpts
Horn Book: “While the stunning, highly expressive photographs dominate in space and impact, Simon's concise and child-friendly writing means that a fairly full picture of gorilla behavior. . .is amply conveyed...”
School Library Journal: “A clear, concise picture of these endangered creatures and their lifestyle.”

5. Connections
*Other books about animals by Seymour Simon
SHARKS. ISBN 0060877138
SNAKES. ISBN 0064461653
WOLVES. ISBN 0064461769
BIG CATS. ISBN 006446119X