Book Description
for Behold the Chameleon! by Suzanne Slade and Thomas Gonzalez
From Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)
Behold a thorough introduction to the “colorful, captivating creature” known as the chameleon, a reptile with especially distinct physical characteristics. A sparse narrative text flows throughout, complemented on each two-page spread by a paragraph of related information. The page opposite the word “stalking,” for instance, elaborates on chameleons’ independent eye movement, while “snatching” is accompanied by facts about chameleons’ quick, sticky tongues. The straightforward account covers these lizards’ other physical traits, such as their prehensile tails, sharp teeth, and ability to change color (which is for body temperature control or communication—not camouflage); behaviors, including hunting, attracting mates, and laying eggs; and varied habitats. General information is often followed by facts about a specific chameleon species. A bibliography and additional facts are included in the back matter. Magnificent, detailed close-ups of multihued chameleons drawn with pastel, colored pencil, and airbrush stun throughout this fascinating volume.
CCBC Choices 2026. © Cooperative Children's Book Center, Univ. of Wisconsin – Madison, 2026. Used with permission.

