Crash of Rhinos, A

A madcap menagerie of animal group names.

They say that birds of a feather flock together. But who knew that bears in a group are called a sleuth? Eagle-eyed author Diane Swanson knew. In a book that's both funny and fascinating, Swanson explores 11 animals and the collective nouns that describe them.

Many terms are a perfect fit. A leap of leopards certainly evokes images of these acrobatic cats. And you can't help but look up to a tower of giraffes. But would you have guessed that many pheasants make up a bouquet? Other animal groupings include:

• An army of caterpillars
• A pride of lions
• A bed of clams
• A raft of ducks
• A gang of elk

Each playful profile reveals a term's origins and describes the behavior and characteristics of the animal. Meanwhile, delightful illustrations capture the literal connection to each intriguing name.A Crash of Rhinos, A Party of Jays is sure to intrigue young animal enthusiasts and budding language lovers alike.

Diane Swanson is the award-winning author of more than 60 factual books for children, includingThe Wonder in Water and Turn It Loose: The Scientist in Absolutely Everybody. She lives in Victoria, British Columbia.