With bright, vivid photographs and colorful, intriguing pictures cascading across each page, this children’s magazine immerses the young reader (ages 7-12) in the spectacular world of science and inquiry. Each edition is complete with all the major components of a classic periodical, from letters to the editor to featured stories and recurring segments, like the “Ranger Rick’s Adventures” two-page comic, seasonal craft activities, and themed games and puzzles. The substantial text is enhanced with boldfaced key words, phonetic descriptions for challenging terms, and definitions of subject-specific vocabulary. In addition, clearly labeled subheadings and a well-organized graphic layout draw attention to the wealth of information that is embedded among the visual displays. Though new readers may struggle with the text itself, a plethora of context clues and detailed imagery compensate for any lack of literary comprehension. The only advertisements included are limited to a single page near the end of the publication and promote kid-friendly educational apps. Published by the non-profit National Wildlife Federation, Ranger Rick effectively fuses education and outright entertainment for children and adults of all ages. ( )

Produced by the National Wildlife Federation, Ranger Rick is an informational magazine about wildlife, written for children between the ages of seven and twelve. The magazine is text-light and image-heavy, with full-color photographs included in each story that illustrate the animal being discussed. Each issue contains several feature stories with pertinent facts about different types of animals as well as a question-and-answer column addressing readers' questions. Also of note is an ongoing cartoon featuring Ranger Rick the raccoon, as well as his other animal friends, in adventures in the wild; in the February 2012 issue, they rescue a baby seal from being trapped in a fishing net. The magazine also includes seasonal features; in the February issue, there is a Valentine's Day-themed story in which text and photographs explain certain ways in which animals show affection. The magazine's discussion of animals is G-rated; even in articles about predatorial animals, the photographs generally do not show them hunting or feeding, and there are no advertisements in this magazine. Any child looking for more information about wild animals would enjoy Ranger Rick. ( )

1st to 5th grade. Published by the National Wildlife Federation, the magazine Ranger Rick provides animal loving elementary students articles, comics, and games all about their favorite theme. Thirty-eight pages and no ads, its articles range from wild animals like Leopards to articles about a Dog Day Camp in material. Each article is a balance of photos and short substantive text. The articles may be also coupled with supportive visuals such as anatomical drawings. Word searches and crossword puzzles are provided at the end. Only 10 issues for $19.95, this magazine is worth the cost. It will satisfy students who love animals and but have exhausted the library collection. It is highly recommended for public and elementary libraries. ( )