Jenkins, Steve. 2004. Actual size. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company.

For readers who want to know how they measure up against animals in nature, Steve Jenkins has presented an inventive way to give them what they want. Each two-page spread uses torn-paper and cut-paper collages to give the actual size of animals, or at least of part of their body. One two-page spread shows the 12-inch eye of a giant squid with startling effect. In addition to the actual size illustrations, Jenkins writes a few lines that give readers additional information. For instance, on the three-page fold-out of the mouth of the saltwater crocodile, Jenkins writes “The saltwater crocodile, the world’s largest reptile, is a man-eater. Length: 23 feet.” For additional information, readers can look at the back of the book which presents a smaller picture of each animal along with information about their habitat, characteristics, and interesting traits. All in all, Jenkins has created a fun and interesting look at several well-known animals that readers of varying ages and abilities will enjoy.