Bears

Gr 3–6—Well-known endangered animals are given thorough, straightforward treatments. Each opening chapter introduces the creature and its main threats. An overview covering physical features, behaviors, and ecosystem impacts comes next, followed by closer looks at threats to survival and current conservation efforts. The writing is lively and cohesive, covering a variety of related topics in an organized, accessible style. Half-page and full-page photographs show critters in the wild and sometimes interacting with scientists and other people; there are no sensationalized images of animals suffering (Gorillas does show a caged gorilla, but it's been rescued). Other useful visual support includes population bar graphs, charts of species characteristics, and range maps. Back matter includes an array of avenues for young conservationists and a thought-provoking "Big Debate" feature, which presents two sides of a conservation issue, such as the impact of zoos and oil drilling.