Elephants

October 15, 2018
Grades 2-5 Veteran children's science author Simon returns with an engaging overview of the distinct physical characteristics of the three remaining species of elephants: the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant. Woven through the species profiles are facts about these matriarchal herds, the emotional ties elephants have with one another, threats facing their populations, and human interaction with these animals. Simon explains that while declines in elephants' numbers are partially due to natural causes, the primary reason is illegal poaching, even on elephant reserves. Domestication and captivity are also addressed, citing how some Asian countries tame elephants and use them in farming, and that circuses have mostly discontinued the use of elephants in shows. Interestingly, international zoos are also examining their confinement of these intelligent, gentle giants because of research on the importance of family within the herds. Large-font text interspersed with captioned color photos (mostly full page), a note on conservation, useful back matter, and suggested resources make this an important addition to animal collections.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)