A beautifully-illustrated book that begins by addressing humans' mostly irrational, long-standing fear of snakes. Topics include physical characteristics and behavior; families and species (over half of which are North American); conservation; and photography. Literary quotations, trivia, and bits of snake lore are interspersed throughout. For reptile fans, nature fans, and pet snake owners. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)