Saturday, October 9, 2010

Will We Miss Them?

Wright, Alexandra. Will We Miss Them?: Endangered Species. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing, 1992.

Plot: The book reviews several endangered species. Many are endangered due to human actions, especially hunting and habitat destruction. Yet, they are worthy of being saved. Some, like elephants, mountain lions, and muriquis are valued for their remarkable appearance. Others, like blue whales and grizzly bears, are majestic. Bald eagles, elephants, and giant pandas serve as national symbols. Yet, whether people acknowledge them or not, the animals provide for the balance that supports other species of life.

Genre: Non-fiction, Science

Reading Level: Ages 9-12

Similar Titles: The Atlas of Endangered Species, The Best Book of Endangered and Extinct Animals

Personal Thoughts: I actually really liked this book when I was younger. Some of the information is a bit dated, but most of it is still accurate. I do have one complaint, though. All of the animals are the "popular" ones. While I understand the book is meant to be a brief introduction to the concept of endangered animals, only two birds and two reptiles are included. The rest are either really large or really fuzzy mammals. Insects, fish, or unattractive animals receive no mention. Such a loss is unfortunate, since some of the rarest animals seem ignored.

Side note: Hurray for forced perspective!

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