When a painted turtle first hatches from its egg, it’s only the size of a quarter. Rick Chrustowski describes how the hatchling hides from danger at the water’s edge, feeding on beetle larva, minnows, tadpoles, and water bugs. In winter, she burrows in the mud and rests in a state similar to hibernation. Painted turtles that survive their first five years are able to develop a hard shell that protects them from most predators, and at this age they mate and produce offspring. Illustrations that capture the beauty of the painted turtles and their watery habitat accompany the straightforward description of their habits and life cycle. (Ages 5–9)

Why did the turtle cross the road? Five years after a female painted turtle hatches from her shell, she is ready to lay eggs of her own. This is a dangerous task because there is a road between her and the perfect nesting site. She starts to cross, but a huge car is hurtling her way. It stops just in time, and the kind people help her to safety. So the next time you see a Turtle Crossing sign, keep your eyes open—if you’re lucky you just might see a painted turtle on her way to make a nest.  Turtle Crossing is a 2007 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.