Rhinos

Children's Literature - Mary Clayton Rowen

The number of species of rhinos has dwindled from about 100 different species to only 5 species that are alive today. Ellis skillfully captures these endangered animals on film. They are rarely seen in the wild. The text includes the following information about rhinos: physical characteristics, diet and daily routine, calls, signals and signs, life cycle, and conservation. An authoritative resource of interesting facts and fabulous photographs.

School Library Journal

Gr 3-6-Rhinos are very big, very ugly, very ancient, and a very good example of an endangered animal in dire circumstances. This superb book flows with a text that is not only appropriately simple, but also rich with information and descriptions that bring the facts to life. Crisp, lively, full-color photographs explain the similarities and differences among the species, show the rhinos' daily habits including marking their territory, and describe the life cycle. A legible locator map and a clever pictograph increase the attraction for even the youngest audiences; bold words that are described both in the text and in a glossary ensure that children will gain a thorough understanding of this impressive animal and its plight. The final two chapters emphasize the human role in the loss of the rhino, once through sports hunting and now through poaching for horns. A bloody photograph of a dead and hornless rhino will disturb readers, but this is followed by steps that can be taken to prevent extinction. There are other good books on the subject, including Caroline Arnold's attractive Rhino Morrow, 1995, but none that does quite so thorough a job of capturing and informing young readers.-Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System, FL