Beth Anderson, Children's Writer

Time for class pictures? Smile pretty! Let those pearly whites shine!

Title: Tooth by Tooth, Comparing Fangs, Tusks, and Chompers
Written by: Sara Levine
Illustrated by: T.S. Spookytooth
Millbrook Press/ Lerner, 2016, nonfiction
Suitable for ages: 4-10
Lexile: 820
Themes/topics: teeth, animals, mammals

Opening:
Open Wide! Look at all those chompers in there.
Mammal teeth come in different shapes and sizes. Did you know your teeth are unusual? It’s true! That’s because you’re a mammal. Lots of animals have teeth, but mammals have three kinds of teeth. Take a look in a mirror and see if you can find them in your own mouth.

Brief synopsis (From worldcat.org)
A playful picture book that will keep readers guessing as they find out how human teeth are like and unlike those of other animals.

Activities and Resources:
Back matter contains a list of books and websites to explore.

Why I like this book:
The lively, creative, and interesting illustrations make this a thoroughly enjoyable learning experience. Questions prompt page turns, involving the reader in an interactive process. The accessible text introduces academic vocabulary, provides opportunities to compare and contrast, and connects animal teeth to diet and habitat. Celebrate a lost tooth with this great read! (I have to say, I’m still puzzled about the illustrator…Mr. Spookytooth.)

Visit author Susanna Hill’s Perfect Picture Books for a plethora of picture books listed by title and topic/theme, each with teacher/parent resources.