Chameleons Are Cool

Based on the 1997 nonfiction picture book written by Martin Jenkins and illustrated by Sue Shields, this iconographic-animated adaptation provides plenty of facts about the titular scaly reptile. Narrated by Debra Leigh, Chameleons Are Cool waxes ecstatic about these lizards, which range in size from a pinkie finger to a small cat, have wrinkly skin and “ridiculous noses,” and are generally grumpy (they even hiss at each other!), slow-moving creatures. One of the most interesting details about the chameleon (more of which are also included in a special “Did You Know?” segment at the end of the program) is that its claim-to-fame color-changing ability is not a matter of melding in with the background, but mainly a sign of sickness, anger, or being too cold or too hot. Viewers will also learn that the creature's eyes can move in opposite directions from one another; that chameleons are not good pets; and that most of the 120 different varieties of chameleon are found in Madagascar. An engaging examination of an exotic beast (with freaky cool illustrations to match), this is recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)