WHAT DO YOU DO WITH A TAIL LIKE THIS? is an interactive book explaining some of the more interesting and useful ways animals use their body parts. On the first page, Jenkins tells the readers the plan, “See if you can guess which animal each part belongs to and how it is used.” On a double-page spread, a question is presented, “What do you do with ears like these?” and Jenkins’s brilliant collage art shows just that body part for five animals . Guessing is fun, whether the reader is knowledgeable to the level of actually guessing the uses or just enjoying recognizing the animal.

The skunk’s tail is feathery, yet so fluffy-looking that readers will reach out to touch the page. The texture of the material used for the rhino conveys the feel of his skin and the crinkle of the archerfish’s skin invokes scales. Each question is answered in a concise but interesting way, almost daring the reader to rush out for more information. For example, “If you’re a chameleon, you look two ways at once,” or, “If you’re a lizard, you break off your tail to get away.” After whetting readers’ appetites with these nuggets, Jenkins provides slightly more information with notes at the end of the book. Tim Arnold from Booklist states, “The notes also neatly answer questions that might arise during a reading (Why do horned lizards squirt blood out of their eyes?) and add to the interactive aspect of the book.” Still, even reluctant readers or nonfiction-phobes will be eager to discover more about these intriguing animals.

This book is an excellent way to introduce the concept of animal adaptations. Used as a science resource, it provides a far more interesting and memorable experience than can be gleaned from a textbook. Within one picture book, a vast cross-section of animals is presented, prompting readers to marvel at the diversity of life on earth. Arnold says, “This is a striking, thoughtfully created book with intriguing facts made more memorable through dynamic art”. The combination of these elements make this a fascinating and informative book that should grace the shelf of every library, classroom or otherwise.