Zoo

'Before the zoo opens each day a small army of keepers, vendors, and maintenance workers perform the daily tasks of cleaning and setting up. Then the crowds flock in. . . . The busy pictures are filled with details and action. The writing is crisp, clear, and informative.' —SLJ.

Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children 1987 (NSTA/CBC)

Provides a behind-the-scenes look at a working day at the zoo, from the moment the workers arrive until the night guard locks the gate.

‘Before the zoo opens each day a small army of keepers, vendors, and maintenance workers perform the daily tasks of cleaning and setting up. Then the crowds flock in. . . . The busy pictures are filled with details and action. The writing is crisp, clear, and informative.’ —SLJ.

Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children 1987 (NSTA/CBC)

Publishers Weekly

Gibbons, an established creator of award-winning nonfiction, now turns her attention to zoos. In her familiar style, combining very simple line drawings, bold colors and an informative narrative, she leads youngsters through an entire day at a large zoo. She includes all sorts of workers: maintenance, food service, keepers, veterinarians and security guards. Unfortunately, this entry is less successful than earlier books. The narrative is informative but neither terribly lively nor exciting. The problem might be in the limitations of her graphic style when paired with this topic. The brilliant details and hues of her machinery and landscapes don't translate as well to her animalsthey lack vitality and interest. Workmanlike, quite useful, but not a first choice. Ages 4-8. (September)

Gail Gibbons, author of more than one hundred books, is the winner of the Washington Post/Children’s Book Guild Award for her overall contribution to children’s nonfiction literature. Called a “master of picture book nonfiction” by ALA Booklist, Ms. Gibbons has a special talent for making complex subjects understandable and entertaining for young readers.