Ocean life

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6 Two titles that focus on problems confronting birds and the ocean ecosystem. The books are similar in formatmany full-color illustrations, maps and diagrams highlight each page of the text. Birds presents the history of the dodo and other extinct avian species, pointing out man's role in their demise. Positive measures such as establishment of bird sanctuaries, rescue operations and captive breeding programs are also included. A short section on helping backyard birds encourages readers to erect bird houses and feeders. While it is similar in format to A Closer Look at Birds (Watts, 1976; o.p.) by J. L. Hicks, Cook emphasizes the conservation aspects. Ocean Life presents the plight of whales, sea otters, fur seals and marine turtles, briefly mentioning the Greenpeace Foundation's efforts to publicize the problems. Oceanography (Golden, 1973; o.p.) by Marion B. Carr is also an introduction to marine life but it does not mention the issues of sealing, whaling, pollution, etc., which Cook highlights. Barbara B. Murphy, Shaler Area School District Libraries, Pittsburgh