Watching tiny fingers trace the outline of a fuzzy caterpillar in a well-loved book, or hearing the delighted gasp when a child recognizes a backyard bird from its page – these moments are pure magic. For curious young minds, animal stories aren’t just bedtime rituals; they’re vibrant passports to the natural world, sparking questions that stretch imagination and build foundational empathy. As we look toward 2026, the landscape of children’s literature continues to evolve, offering richer, more engaging ways to nurture this innate fascination with creatures big and small, right from the earliest pages.
Gone are the days when animal books meant simple picture-and-word pairings. Today’s offerings are dynamic learning tools, thoughtfully crafted to align with developmental stages while weaving in scientific accuracy, diverse perspectives, and interactive elements that captivate digital natives. Choosing the right animal book isn’t just about finding a cute story; it’s about selecting a key that unlocks observation skills, respect for biodiversity, and a lifelong love of learning. Understanding what truly matters in these books – beyond fleeting trends – ensures you provide experiences that resonate deeply and grow with your child’s expanding curiosity.
Top 10 Children’s Animal Books
Detailed Product Reviews
1. The Animal Book: A Visual Encyclopedia of Life on Earth (DK Our World in Pictures)
Overview:
This used DK encyclopedia offers a visually rich exploration of Earth’s biodiversity, featuring high-quality photography and concise scientific information. Aimed at general audiences, it systematically categorizes species across habitats, evolutionary timelines, and biological traits, making complex topics accessible through DK’s signature visual approach.
What Makes It Stand Out:
DK’s unparalleled photographic depth and infographic-driven layout distinguish it. The cross-section illustrations, habitat maps, and “Did You Know?” fact boxes transform dense biological data into engaging, digestible content. Its comprehensive scope—from microorganisms to mammals—serves as both a reference and an educational journey.
Value for Money:
As a used copy in good condition, it provides exceptional affordability for DK’s typically premium pricing. While new editions exist, this version delivers nearly identical core content at a fraction of the cost, outperforming budget alternatives lacking DK’s editorial rigor and visual quality.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Unmatched visual clarity; scientifically accurate; broad taxonomic coverage; durable hardcover (typical for DK). Weaknesses: Used condition risks minor wear; lacks updates from newer editions; minimal interactive elements for younger readers.
Bottom Line:
A highly cost-effective, visually stunning reference for teens and adults seeking authoritative animal knowledge; ideal for homeschoolers or casual learners despite minor age-related wear.
2. The Fascinating Animal Book for Kids: 500 Wild Facts! (Fascinating Facts)
Overview:
Targeted at children aged 6–10, this fact-packed volume delivers rapid-fire animal trivia designed to captivate young readers. Organized by themes like habitats, behaviors, and record-holding species, it prioritizes entertainment alongside education through bite-sized, memorable entries.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The sheer volume of 500 facts creates relentless engagement, avoiding the “textbook fatigue” common in children’s nonfiction. Unexpected, humorous tidbits (e.g., “squirrels forget 75% of buried nuts”) spark curiosity, while the digestible format encourages independent reading and trivia sharing.
Value for Money:
Priced competitively for its page count and niche focus, it surpasses generic animal guides by maximizing content density. At under $15, it offers superior re-readability compared to pricier interactive books with shorter lifespans, making it a smart staple for classrooms or gift-giving.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: High re-read value; age-appropriate language; fosters spontaneous learning; portable size. Weaknesses: Minimal visual flair (fewer illustrations); facts lack contextual depth; no cited sources for verification.
Bottom Line:
An excellent, budget-friendly choice for nurturing early science interest—prioritize if seeking pure fact immersion over narrative depth or lavish artwork.
3. An Anthology of Intriguing Animals
Overview:
This curated collection spotlights lesser-known or behaviorally unusual species, moving beyond typical zoo favorites. Structured as thematic essays, it blends scientific insight with narrative storytelling to explore animal adaptations, ecological roles, and conservation challenges.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its focus on “intriguing” outliers—like the immortal jellyfish or zombie-ant fungi—creates a sense of discovery absent in standard encyclopedias. The literary prose style elevates it above dry references, appealing to readers who enjoy narrative nonfiction like The Soul of an Octopus.
Value for Money:
Mid-priced for a niche title, it justifies cost through unique content unavailable in broad surveys. While pricier than mass-market kids’ books, it targets older audiences seeking substantive material, outperforming superficial alternatives with its thoughtful analysis.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Fresh subject selection; engaging writing; promotes critical thinking about ecosystems. Weaknesses: Limited species coverage; minimal visuals; assumes baseline biology knowledge, potentially alienating younger readers.
Bottom Line:
Recommended for teens/adults craving intellectually stimulating animal content—skip if preferring quick facts or visual guides.
4. World of Eric Carle, Around the Farm 30-Button Animal Sound Book - Great for First Words - PI Kids
Overview:
An interactive board book for toddlers, featuring Eric Carle’s iconic collage art and 30 sound buttons that play animal names and authentic noises. Designed for ages 3+, it merges early vocabulary building with sensory exploration through touch-activated feedback.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Carle’s vibrant, recognizable illustrations paired with responsive sound technology create multisensory learning. Each button clearly links visual (animal image), auditory (pronunciation), and tactile (pressing) input, reinforcing word-sound associations more effectively than passive reading.
Value for Money:
Priced moderately for a sound book, its durability (thick board pages) and Carle’s brand prestige justify the cost. Outlasts cheaper plastic alternatives, and the 30-button variety exceeds competitors’ single-sound models, offering years of developmental play per dollar.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Exceptional sensory integration; sturdy construction; perfect for speech development; Carle’s timeless art. Weaknesses: Volume control absent; button responsiveness may degrade over time; limited beyond basic animal recognition.
Bottom Line:
A top-tier investment for preschoolers—prioritize this over flimsier sound books for enduring educational play.
5. National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Animals
Overview:
Crafted for ages 2–5, this padded-cover book introduces foundational animal knowledge through Nat Geo’s stunning photography and simplified text. Organized by animal types (mammals, birds, etc.), it balances visual impact with early learning principles in a secure, child-friendly format.
What Makes It Stand Out:
National Geographic’s unparalleled photojournalism immerses children in real-world animal contexts, fostering empathy and wonder. The “fast facts” callouts and “critter feature” sections cater to varied attention spans, while padded covers ensure safety for small hands.
Value for Money:
At $12–$15, it outperforms competitors with Nat Geo’s trusted content quality and heirloom durability. The secure packaging guarantees arrival in pristine condition, and the re-readable layout offers better longevity than disposable activity books.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Breathtaking photography; developmentally appropriate text; exceptional build quality; strong brand reliability. Weaknesses: Limited interactivity; less narrative-driven than storybooks; regional animal bias (North America/Europe focused).
Bottom Line:
An essential, visually spectacular first animal reference—unbeatable for sparking natural curiosity in toddlers.
6. National Geographic Kids Animal Encyclopedia, 2nd Edition: 2,500 Animals with Photos, Maps, and More! (NGK Encyclopedias)
Overview: This revised encyclopedia is a vibrant, visually driven reference for young animal enthusiasts, packed with stunning National Geographic photography, detailed maps, and information on 2,500 species across diverse habitats. It transforms complex zoological concepts into accessible, engaging content for children aged 8-12. What Makes It Stand Out: Its unparalleled visual richness—featuring high-resolution photos and habitat maps—paired with bite-sized, fact-focused entries makes animal taxonomy tangible. The “More!” sections offer quirky trivia and conservation notes, fostering curiosity beyond basic identification. The sheer scope (covering mammals, insects, marine life) in a single, manageable volume is unmatched for its age group. Value for Money: Priced competitively for a hardcover reference book, it offers exceptional longevity; kids return to it repeatedly as their understanding deepens. While cheaper online resources exist, this curated, ad-free physical book encourages sustained focus and becomes a trusted household resource, justifying its cost over disposable alternatives. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Visually captivating; authoritative yet child-friendly; promotes environmental awareness; durable binding. Weaknesses: Dense text may overwhelm younger readers (under 8); minimal interactive elements; some species lack depth for advanced learners. Bottom Line: An indispensable, beautifully crafted educational cornerstone that sparks lasting fascination with wildlife; highly recommended for curious kids and family libraries seeking reliable, inspiring reference material.
7. If Animals Kissed Good Night
Overview: This gentle bedtime story imagines how various animals might bid goodnight to their little ones, weaving soothing rituals like otters holding paws or elephants nuzzling trunks into a lyrical narrative. Aimed at toddlers and preschoolers, it combines soft illustrations with rhythmic prose to ease children into sleep. What Makes It Stand Out: The unique premise transforms familiar animal behaviors into tender, relatable bedtime metaphors, fostering emotional connection. Lisa Wheeler’s rhyming text flows effortlessly, while illustrator Barney Saltzberg’s warm, expressive artwork creates a calming visual rhythm perfect for winding down. Value for Money: As a durable hardcover picture book, it delivers significant re-read value through nightly routines. Its niche focus on animal-themed bedtime comfort justifies the price compared to generic stories, offering therapeutic utility that extends far beyond initial reading. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Exceptionally calming tone; promotes empathy through animal parallels; sturdy construction; ideal length for bedtime. Weaknesses: Limited educational content beyond animal names; predictable structure may bore older children; minimal plot development. Bottom Line: A near-perfect bedtime companion that uses animal affection to comfort toddlers; worth every penny for parents seeking a reliable, heartwarming nightly ritual book.
8. Noisy Baby Animals: Includes 6 Sounds and an On/Off Switch on the Back Cover! (My First)
Overview: Designed for infants and toddlers, this interactive board book features colorful, high-contrast animal illustrations paired with realistic sound buttons. Pressing each animal’s image triggers authentic noises (e.g., a chick’s peep, a lion’s roar), with a convenient on/off switch to control volume. What Makes It Stand Out: The inclusion of genuine animal sounds—activated intuitively by little fingers—creates immersive sensory engagement unmatched by standard touch-and-feel books. The on/off switch is a thoughtful parental perk, preventing battery drain and noise fatigue during travel or quiet time. Value for Money: While priced slightly higher than non-interactive board books, the durable construction and electronic components offer months of developmental play. It outperforms cheaper sound books with clearer audio and sturdier buttons, making it a cost-effective investment for early learning. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Realistic audio enhances realism; sturdy board pages withstand rough handling; on/off switch adds practicality; boosts auditory recognition. Weaknesses: Limited to six sounds; battery replacement requires tools; sounds may be startling for very sensitive infants. Bottom Line: A highly engaging, well-designed introductory sound book that captivates babies through multisensory learning; recommended for parents prioritizing interactive, developmental play.
9. See You Later, Alligator
Overview: This playful rhyming board book uses clever animal-themed farewells (“See you later, alligator!”) to teach toddlers basic goodbyes and greetings in a joyful, repetitive structure. Vivid illustrations pair each phrase with expressive animal characters, encouraging participation through call-and-response. What Makes It Stand Out: Its infectious, rhythmic language transforms mundane social routines into a game, leveraging humor (e.g., “After a while, crocodile!”) to reinforce language patterns. The bright, cartoonish art style holds attention, while the repetitive format aids memory and verbal development. Value for Money: As a compact board book, it’s affordably priced yet delivers outsized utility in social-emotional learning. Its re-readability during daily transitions (leaving daycare, bedtime) ensures constant use, offering better longevity per dollar than single-theme alternatives. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Builds early social skills; encourages vocal imitation; durable for toddler handling; quick, satisfying read-alouds. Weaknesses: Minimal educational depth beyond phrases; shorter content may fatigue quickly for older preschoolers; no tactile elements. Bottom Line: A delightfully effective tool for teaching polite farewells through rhyme and fun; excellent value for parents navigating toddler socialization challenges.
10. Baby Touch and Feel: Animals
Overview: Part of DK’s acclaimed series, this touch-and-feel board book introduces babies to animal textures through plush fur, smooth scales, and fuzzy feathers. Simple, high-contrast photographs pair with minimal text, inviting infants to explore tactile differences on each page. What Makes It Stand Out: The premium, varied textures are exceptionally well-integrated and safe for mouthing, providing crucial sensory stimulation. DK’s commitment to visual clarity—using real animal photos instead of cartoons—enhances cognitive recognition during tactile exploration. Value for Money: Though pricier than basic board books, the washable, chew-safe materials and developmental benefits justify the cost. It outlasts cheaper alternatives with flimsy textures, serving as a go-to sensory tool through multiple stages of infancy. Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Diverse, high-quality tactile materials; promotes fine motor skills; visually stimulating for young eyes; easy to clean. Weaknesses: Limited narrative depth; textures may flatten over time with heavy use; few pages compared to storybooks. Bottom Line: A sensory-rich essential for early development that safely engages curious babies; a worthwhile splurge for foundational tactile learning.
Understanding Developmental Stages and Reading Needs
Matching a book to a child’s current stage is crucial for engagement and comprehension. What delights a toddler might bore a kindergartener, while content perfect for a six-year-old could overwhelm a preschooler. Recognizing these shifts helps you find books that feel just right.
Books for Babies and Very Young Toddlers (0-18 Months)
Sensory exploration is paramount at this stage. Look for board books with high-contrast imagery (black, white, bold reds) that capture developing vision. Thick, crinkly pages or soft fabric elements featuring simple animal shapes provide safe tactile stimulation. Minimal text, often just single-syllable animal names (“Moo,” “Baa”), read in expressive tones, builds early sound recognition. Durability is non-negotiable; these books must withstand chewing and vigorous handling.
Engaging Early Toddlers (18-36 Months)
As motor skills and language explode, books should encourage interaction. Sturdy lift-the-flap features hiding familiar animals (“Who’s under the log?”) build anticipation and fine motor control. Repetitive phrases and predictable patterns (“The duck says quack, quack, quack!”) invite participation and boost vocabulary. Simple storylines about daily animal routines (eating, sleeping) mirror their own world, fostering connection. Bright, uncluttered illustrations focusing on one central animal per page aid focus.
Captivating Preschoolers (3-5 Years)
Narrative complexity increases significantly here. Seek books with gentle story arcs featuring animal characters navigating relatable emotions or simple problems (sharing, bravery). Richer vocabulary introduces concepts like habitats (“jungle,” “ocean”), life cycles (“caterpillar to butterfly”), and basic animal characteristics (“furry,” “scaly”). Humor becomes a powerful engagement tool. Books encouraging prediction (“What do you think happens next?”) or connection to real life (“Have you seen a squirrel like this?”) deepen understanding.
Supporting Early Elementary School Children (5-8 Years)
Reading for information becomes exciting. Books blending compelling narrative with factual content shine – think detailed explorations of specific animal groups (reptiles, birds of prey) or ecosystems. Age-appropriate scientific terms are introduced clearly (“camouflage,” “migration”). Illustrated non-fiction with clear sections, captions, and perhaps simple maps or diagrams supports emerging research skills. Stories exploring animal behavior, conservation themes, or biographies of young naturalists inspire deeper thinking and discussion.
Essential Content Features to Prioritize
The heart of a great children’s animal book lies in its content. Beyond cute pictures, specific qualities transform a simple story into a meaningful learning experience that respects both the child and the subject matter.
Scientific Accuracy and Age-Appropriate Detail
While whimsy has its place, foundational understanding matters. Animals should be depicted with correct physical features and behaviors suitable for the target age. A book for toddlers might simplify a bird’s nest-building, while one for early elementary can explain why birds build nests. Avoiding glaring inaccuracies (e.g., mammals laying eggs outside monotremes) builds trust and a solid base for future learning. Look for authors or illustrators with natural science backgrounds or clear consultation notes.
Compelling Storytelling and Character Development
Dry facts rarely hold young attention spans. The most effective books weave information into a narrative. Does the animal character have a relatable goal or challenge? Does the story evoke wonder or gentle suspense? Strong storytelling makes facts memorable and emotionally resonant, turning learning into an adventure rather than a lesson. Character-driven plots about friendship, exploration, or overcoming fears using animal protagonists are particularly powerful.
Fostering Empathy and Connection to Nature
The best animal books go beyond identification to cultivate respect and care. Subtle messaging about animal needs, feelings (avoiding excessive anthropomorphism), and the importance of habitats helps children see animals as fellow living beings deserving of kindness. Stories showing positive human-animal interactions or the consequences of environmental carelessness (handled gently for young ages) plant early seeds for conservation ethics and responsible citizenship.
Diversity and Representation in Perspectives
Look for books that showcase the vast diversity of the animal kingdom beyond common backyard creatures. Representation matters in the approach too: include titles featuring children of various backgrounds interacting with nature, indigenous knowledge respectfully integrated, or global perspectives on wildlife. Avoid stereotypical portrayals. This broadens a child’s worldview and emphasizes that nature is a shared, global treasure.
Evaluating Format and Physical Design
How a book is made is as important as what’s inside it, especially for young children. The physical attributes directly impact usability, safety, and longevity, ensuring the book gets used and loved.
Durability and Safety for Little Hands
Board books with thick, rounded pages are essential for infants and toddlers. For older preschoolers, reinforced spines and high-quality paper prevent quick rips. Non-toxic inks and finishes are non-negotiable. Check for small, removable parts on interactive elements (like pull-tabs) for children under three. The book should feel substantial and well-made, signaling its value and encouraging careful handling.
Illustration Style and Visual Appeal
Artwork is the primary hook for young readers. Styles vary widely – from realistic watercolors to bold graphic art or charming cartoons. Consider what resonates with your child: some prefer lifelike detail, others love exaggerated expressions. Crucially, illustrations should clearly support the text, accurately depicting the animal and its context without confusing clutter. High-quality printing ensures colors are vibrant and details are crisp.
Interactive Elements Done Right
Flaps, textures, pull-tabs, and sound buttons can enhance engagement but must serve the story, not distract from it. Ensure mechanisms are robust enough for repeated use without breaking. Ask: Does this flap reveal key information crucial to understanding? Does the texture authentically represent the animal’s skin/fur? Poorly integrated interactivity feels gimmicky and frustrates rather than educates. For 2026, look for subtler, more durable integrations.
Accessibility and Inclusive Design
Consider features that make books usable for all children. Clear, large fonts aid emerging readers. Some books incorporate basic sign language for animal names. Sensory-friendly options might exist with less glossy finishes or reduced visual complexity for neurodiverse children. Books featuring animals in natural settings, not just zoos, promote a broader understanding of wildlife contexts.
Looking Ahead: Trends Shaping 2026’s Offerings
The children’s book market is dynamic, reflecting societal shifts and technological advances. Being aware of emerging trends helps identify forward-thinking titles that offer fresh, relevant experiences.
Integration of Augmented Reality (AR) Thoughtfully
While screens aren’t replacements for physical books, subtle AR features accessed via a parent’s phone (e.g., pointing the camera at a page to see a gentle 3D animation of a bird taking flight or hear its authentic call) are becoming more sophisticated. The key in 2026 is that these features must be optional, enhance the core book experience without being the sole focus, and require minimal setup to avoid frustration. They should deepen understanding, not just add noise.
Focus on Sustainable and Ethical Production
Environmental consciousness is moving beyond content to the product itself. Expect increased availability of books printed on recycled, FSC-certified paper with plant-based inks. Publishers are exploring biodegradable or compostable binding materials and minimizing plastic elements. Supporting publishers committed to ethical labor practices and sustainable forestry is becoming a conscious choice for eco-minded families, aligning the book’s message with its creation.
Deeper Dives into Niche Ecosystems and Conservation
Moving past lions and tigers, there’s growing interest in showcasing lesser-known but vital habitats and creatures: deep-sea vents, urban wildlife corridors, specific insect roles, or endangered species recovery stories. Books for slightly older children (6-8) are tackling conservation efforts more directly, presenting hopeful stories of habitat restoration or community-led protection, empowering young readers with actionable knowledge (like creating pollinator gardens) rather than instilling eco-anxiety.
Emphasis on Emotional Intelligence Through Animal Behavior
Books are increasingly using observable animal behaviors to model emotional regulation and social skills for children. Stories might explore how young animals learn patience, cope with change (like migration), or resolve conflicts within their groups, providing natural parallels for children navigating their own big feelings and social interactions in a relatable, non-preachy way.
Building a Meaningful Animal Book Collection
Curating a collection isn’t about quantity; it’s about creating a diverse, evolving library that grows with your child’s interests and cognitive abilities, fostering a lasting connection to the natural world.
Starting Small and Observing Interests
Don’t feel pressured to buy stacks at once. Begin with one or two high-quality books matching your child’s current age and observed fascinations (dinosaurs? backyard bugs? ocean creatures?). Pay close attention to which books they request repeatedly – this reveals their true interests and helps guide future selections. A child obsessed with frogs needs different books than one captivated by birds of prey.
Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity
A few exceptional, durable books that spark genuine engagement and discussion are far more valuable than a shelf full of forgettable titles. Invest in well-researched, beautifully illustrated books from reputable publishers known for children’s non-fiction or thoughtful fiction. These become cherished staples, read countless times and referenced for years.
Creating Connections Beyond the Page
The real magic happens when the book inspires action. After reading about local birds, put up a simple feeder and observe together. A story about tide pools might lead to a careful beach exploration (with respect for the habitat). Visit nature centers, watch age-appropriate wildlife documentaries, or draw pictures of favorite animals. This transforms passive reading into active learning and deepens the book’s impact exponentially.
Involving Children in the Selection Process
As children get older (preschool and up), take them to the library or bookstore and let them help choose animal books. Guide them towards quality options within their interest area, but allow autonomy. Ownership of the choice increases their investment in reading and enjoying the book. Discussing why they picked a particular book (“I like the cover!” “It has snakes!”) is also a valuable critical thinking exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most crucial factor when choosing an animal book for a very young toddler?
Focus on extreme durability (thick board pages), high-contrast or very simple, bold illustrations, and opportunities for sensory interaction (like touch-and-feel elements), with minimal, rhythmic text read expressively.
How can I tell if an animal book is scientifically accurate enough for my preschooler?
Look for clear, correct depictions of the animal’s appearance and basic behaviors. Reputable publishers often cite consultants or have educational notes. Avoid books where animals act like humans in clothing/settings unless it’s clearly fantasy; subtle cues should indicate realistic contexts.
Are books with sound effects or lots of flaps beneficial, or just distracting?
They can be beneficial if the interactive elements directly support the story or learning (e.g., a flap revealing how a spider spins a web, a button playing the actual animal sound). Avoid those where interactivity feels random or breaks the narrative flow, as this hinders comprehension and focus.
My child only wants the same animal book read every night. Should I encourage variety?
Repetition is vital for early learning! It builds vocabulary, prediction skills, and comfort. Enjoy the favorite, but subtly introduce variety by saying, “We loved the bear book! Let’s find another book about forest friends tomorrow.” Offer 2-3 choices, including the favorite, to give a sense of control.
How do I balance screen-based animal content (apps, videos) with physical books?
Prioritize physical books for core learning and bonding. Use high-quality screen content sparingly as a supplement – perhaps a short, factual video after reading a book about the same animal to see real movement. Emphasize that books offer deeper focus and imagination space that screens often lack.
What are key signs of a book that fosters empathy for animals?
Look for language describing what animals need (food, shelter, safety) or might feel in a realistic way (“The otter pup stays close to its mom for warmth and protection”). Stories showing respectful human interaction with wildlife or consequences of habitat disruption (handled gently) are positive indicators.
Are there animal book themes to avoid for young children?
Steer clear of overly graphic predator-prey scenes, themes of permanent abandonment, or stories inducing excessive fear about common animals (like all spiders being dangerous). Focus on wonder, observation, and positive connections. Save complex ecological concepts like predation for older elementary ages.
How important is it for animal books to show diverse human characters interacting with nature?
It’s very important for representation and inclusivity. Books showing children of various backgrounds exploring, caring for, or learning about animals help all children see themselves as part of the natural world and foster broader perspectives on who engages with wildlife.
My child is starting to read independently. What animal book features support early readers?
Look for clear, large fonts, controlled vocabulary with some repetition, strong picture-to-text support (illustrations clearly match the words), and short sentences. Non-fiction with clear headings, captions, and diagrams can also boost confidence. Avoid dense blocks of text.
How can animal books support learning beyond just animal facts?
They naturally build vocabulary, teach narrative structure and sequencing, introduce scientific concepts (habitats, life cycles), foster observation skills, encourage empathy and emotional understanding, promote environmental stewardship, and can even touch on geography and basic math (counting animals, comparing sizes).