Back from the Brink

February 12, 2018
Castaldo vividly chronicles efforts to save seven endangered species: whooping cranes, wolves, bald eagles, Galápagos tortoises, California condors, American alligators, and American bison. For each species, she discusses the reasons for their dwindling populations and the strides being made to assist in their recovery. In the case of the Galápagos tortoises, conservationists were forced to wipe out destructive goats introduced to Isabela Island: “If officials didn’t get rid of the goats, the entire ecosystem would continue to collapse.” Castaldo also describes the triumphant reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone National Park, which led to a rebalancing of that ecosystem. Photographs of the animals in the wild and in protected facilities complement this intimate and optimistic look at humans’ ability to protect the planet’s biodiversity. Ages 10–12. Agent: Jennifer Laughran, Andrea Brown Agency.

February 15, 2018
The stories of seven Western Hemisphere species--headed toward extinction for different reasons and saved in different ways--introduce and explain issues involved in the preservation of endangered animals.After a short introduction to the concept of extinction and the importance of the Endangered Species Act, Castaldo describes her visits to restoration centers for whooping cranes in Wisconsin; gray wolves, bald eagles, and American bison in New York; giant Galapagos tortoises in Ecuador; condors in California; and alligators in Florida. Her admiration and appreciation for these wild creatures and their human helpers permeate the gracefully written text. Chapter by chapter she explains why each species was in trouble, the often controversial restoration methods, and the results. The well-organized and convincingly presented narrative is supplemented with sidebars and enlivened with plentiful photographs, most taken by the author herself. She uses her examples as springboards to introduce and explain larger questions as well as to introduce important concepts such as the need for apex predators. She uses fresh, less-familiar quotations (Herman Melville on the giant tortoise!) and cites scientists both male and female, naturalists, and volunteers, including young people. A "Call to Action" offers solid, meaningful suggestions for young readers, and she concludes with 18 pages of backmatter including many, many learning opportunities: things to watch and read, organizations to investigate, websites and parks to explore.Challenging but important reading for the intended audience. (notes, bibliography, glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 10-14)

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April 1, 2018

Gr 5-7-Even in the midst of what Castaldo (and many scientists) dub the "sixth great era of mass extinction," there have been successful efforts to salvage endangered species. Here she profiles seven such initiatives-all animals and all North American, except for the Galapagos tortoises-with quick side glances at several other examples. Some of her selected species, such as the whooping crane (at one time 16 were left in the wild) and the California condor (five, including just one female), really did come close to the titular "brink" and still aren't that far away from it. Others have recovered in great numbers. For instance, the Yellowstone bison herd needed to be reduced in 2017, an event the author refers to as a "Mass Bison Slaughter." Along with brief introductions to condor "nest technicians" and other wildlife workers, the author points out ongoing dangers to animal populations of all sizes, from lead poisoning to "microtrash," and offers shout-outs to such "Eco-Heroes" of the past as Rachel Carson and Richard Nixon. She closes with generalized action notes for young eco-activists and extensive lists of organizations, sites, and information sources. VERDICT Though the "success stories" here are told elsewhere in greater detail, middle school students will find this a topical, timely affirmation that nurturing the planet's biodiversity is not a lost cause. Consider for robust collections.-John Peters, Children's Literature Consultant, New York

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from March 15, 2018
Grades 6-9 *Starred Review* This appealingly informative book highlights the American bison (declared the U.S. national mammal in 2016) and six other endangered species that were saved from the brink of extinction because of the critical role they play in their environments. Reasons for their near extinctions were varied: some were overhunted (gray wolves, whooping cranes, American alligators, American bison), while others were devastated by pesticides (bald eagles), lead poisoning (California condor), or by alien species (giant Gal�pagos tortoises). The coverage is thorough; in addition to providing information on these animals themselves, the book also highlights individuals who have made significant environmental impacts. Rachel Carson, who exposed the dangers of pesticides, is mentioned, as are scientists and conservationists who are working today to help protect endangered species. Policy changes, too, are explored: the book examines the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which affords such animals with protection, as well as instances where that protection is eroded by reversals of government orders, or government-sanctioned slaughters. Readers will be moved by Castaldo's appreciation for these animals. Even though each of the species discussed survives today, Castaldo stresses that their survival is not guaranteed. This inspiring and engaging book, with plentiful photographs, includes suggestions on ways to help, online resources, places to see these animals, helpful organizations, end notes, bibliography, an index, and a glossary.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)