The North American Beaver

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-These two books are each constructed around a particular animal, but their focus is on the efforts to reintroduce it to areas of the U.S. where it was nearly extinct. Both titles begin with an explanation of what caused the animals to become endangered (e.g., the fur trade and destruction of habitat), followed by a general discussion of their habitat and habits. Finally, the author provides detailed descriptions of reintroduction efforts and a look at how the animals are faring now. Becker also examines some of the problems that the creatures have created, such as destruction of property caused by beaver dams and otters' invasions of fish hatcheries. Both sides are given equal space and the issues are laid out in clear, easy-to-understand language. A nice mix of full-color photographs and reproductions is a good complement to the texts. These books are useful additions to units on habitats and/or endangered species.-Arwen Marshall, Minneapolis Public Library Copyright 2003 Cahners Business Information.