Saber-Tooth Cat

School Library Journal

K-Gr 4-- Eight titles examining extinct or nearly extinct animals. On the positive side, each offers readers clear photographs, a brief glossary/index, and references to societies concerned with the preservation of these animals. Unfortunately the negative elements far outweigh the positive aspects. Some captions do not coincide with the action in the photographs. The writing in each title varies from rather simple to somewhat curt and condescending. Additionally, facts are often presented in a chatty, generalized fashion. Finally, the causes for many of the animals' plights--people's need to survive or their basic lack of awareness of the problems--are presented as being truly evil. While these actions may not be wisely motivated all of the time, it seems inappropriate to inflict guilt constantly upon adults (and, in turn, young readers). Considering the obscure subjects covered and the poor calibre of the texts, one would be well advised to look elsewhere for environmental awareness books. --J. J. Votapka, Oyster Bay-East Norwich Public Library, Oyster Bay, NY