Seeing is Believing: Steve Jenkins' "Actual Size"

   This is a SHSU LSSL 5360 Assignment:  

Steve Jenkins' "Actual Size" offers a remarkable and visually stunning journey into the animal kingdom, abandoning abstract measurements in favor of true-to-life depictions. Through his signature paper collage illustrations, Jenkins allows readers to experience the sheer scale of creatures, from the minuscule to the monumental. Imagine confronting the actual size of a giant squid's eye or the length of a saltwater crocodile – this book provides that visceral experience, fostering a sense of wonder and a tangible understanding of the diverse sizes within the natural world.

The book's brilliance lies in its ability to bridge the gap between abstract measurements and tangible understanding. By showcasing animals at their actual size, Jenkins creates a powerful experiential learning tool. The meticulous detail and texture of his paper collage artwork further enhance this immersive experience, adding a tactile quality to the visual journey. This approach not only educates but also ignites a sense of awe, making the book a valuable tool for engaging children and adults alike in scientific exploration. Jenkins prioritizes visual representation, allowing the reader to truly grasp the size of an animal in comparison to their own body.

However, while the visual impact is undeniable, the textual component is relatively sparse. The accompanying descriptions, while informative, primarily serve to contextualize the illustrations rather than offering in-depth scientific explanations. This simplicity, while accessible for younger audiences, might leave older readers desiring more comprehensive information about the animals’ biology, behavior, and habitats. Furthermore, the selection of animals, while diverse, could be expanded to include a wider range of species and ecosystems. Despite this, “Actual Size” remains a remarkable achievement in visual storytelling.

"Actual Size" has garnered critical acclaim, including a starred review from BOOKLIST and a place on their Editor’s Choice list and Top of the List for 2004. This book serves as a perfect bridge between young readers and the study of animals, facilitating a deeper understanding of animal sizes and fostering connections to their existing knowledge. It provides a unique and memorable way to learn about the natural world, making it a valuable addition to any library or classroom. 

ISBN: 0618375945