Colorful watercolor sketches and text illustrate the immense diversity of plant and animal life indigenous to the rain forest. Species and conditions of lowland and montane rain forests in tropical and temperate climates are included. Simple descriptions of the flora and fauna are followed by an explanation of the rapid, devastating effects of massive rain forest clearing on the land and animals as well as its contribution to the greenhouse effect. A chart lists names and addresses of sixteen organizations which can provide further information about rain forests. (Ages 7-10)

Rain forests have existed for millions of years, and are the home to more kinds of plants and animals than anywhere else on Earth. This full-color picture book is a close-up look at the many living things that hang in a delicate balance in rain forests throughout the world.