Gone is Gone

September 27, 2019

Gr 4-7-In this colorful and informative nonfiction title, Groc discusses threats to currently endangered animals. Beginning with an impassioned foreword from Jane Goodall, the book takes the reader on an adventure that remains informational, but still entertaining. Each wildlife encounter introduces an animal that is in danger. These brief yet encompassing passages offer an in-depth understanding of each endangered animal. Readers may take special interest in the section on endangered species in their backyard. This section provides suggestions on how to become a conscientious member of our planet and a steward for endangered species. VERDICT A refreshing look at endangered species. Especially recommended for secondary environmental science classrooms.-Brittany McMahon, Westernport Elementary School, MD

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June 15, 2019
Photographs and examples from years of travel and wildlife observation support this introduction to current wildlife threats. Humans are causing the sixth mass extinction in the animal world, but humans can also be part of the solution asserts Groc in her plea to restore nature's balance. Opening with a depressing chapter of examples of disappearing species, she continues in a more positive vein, explaining how scientists study the issue. She points out possible remedies and concludes with a chapter offering ways readers can be involved. She explains important concepts--extinction, ecosystems, habitat, and climate change--and the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species. The bulk of her narrative consists of anecdotes from her own experiences around the world: in old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest; on the Laysan Islands in the Pacific; in Alaska, Namibia, and the Gal�pagos; and more. Interrupting the narrative are full-page sidebars with stories of specific encounters and organized measures taken to protect wildlife. Words defined in the backmatter glossary are set off typographically within the text. The author/illustrator makes her call for action even more personal by including photos of her own children interacting with the natural world. But she has so many stories. With wave after wave of examples, she almost drowns the message. Nancy Castaldo's Back From the Brink (2018) covers the same territory more succinctly. An overcrowded if heartfelt testament to a lifetime of concern for the natural world. (resources, acknowledgments, index) (Nonfiction. 10-14)

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