The Wild World Handbook

November 1, 2021
This handbook spotlights wildlife in our world, people who study and protect it, and ways to safeguard habitats and the creatures who live there. Debbink--who featured habitats around the world in the previous series entry, 2021's Habitats--explores the creatures who share our world. The book's scope is wide-ranging: Chapters are devoted to insects, birds, reptiles and amphibians, land animals, ocean creatures, freshwater life, and city wildlife. Within each chapter there's an introduction; a page of facts; biographical information for people who have observed and described those creatures; a profile of an animal; a "natural wonder" (such as the remarkable marine journeys of ocean creatures); an example of people helping animals; two do-it-yourself activities; and stewardship suggestions on individual, local, and global levels. From Maria Merian observing insects in the 1600s to modern-day Tomas Diagne protecting turtles in Africa to filmmaker Dora Nightingale filming foxes in the U.K., the biographies are widely diverse. Hands-on activities are similarly varied. Reliable web references for further information are included, though some recommended apps aren't available in the U.S. The author writes in a clear and engaging style, often addressing the reader directly, though there are some inaccuracies in the text. With such a broad scope, it is not surprising that some of the exposition seems oversimplified. Pleasing illustrations depict children of varying racial representations exploring outdoors. A valuable resource that deserves more careful editing. (bibliography, index) (Nonfiction. 9-14)

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December 1, 2021
Grades 4-7 Animals are always a hot topic for kids, and this STEAM offering for middle-graders is sure to please. The overall message of the book is to pay attention, and there's a nice balance between warnings about animals nearing extinction and success stories about species that have been brought back from the brink. One notable feature is the breadth of coverage: main categories go beyond insects, birds, and ocean and land animals to include freshwater and city wildlife. There's a range of articles as well, including brief biographical profiles of pioneering animal champions past and present; special features on selected species, research, and conservation efforts; outdoor field-trip activities; do-it-yourself art and science projects; and practical tips for stewardship and taking action. Much of this information is presented in manageable lists set off by colorful graphics, and the many vivid full-page illustrations will grab readers' attention. The book ends with a bibliography and websites for more than 30 animal protection organizations. This is an attractive package for researchers and browsers alike.

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Starred review from January 1, 2022

Gr 3-5-This fascinating and wide-ranging title connects animals, habitats, and the protection of our environment, detailing a variety of ways to approach wildlife and preservation. Divided into chapters that each explore a different type of animal-insect, bird, mammal or animal habitat, such as land animals or ocean creatures-the work features short sections that highlight different aspects of these species. Each chapter begins with an introduction to the species and interesting facts. Debbink then introduces a scientist or activist who has focused on this animal; many of these are women, young adults, or others who may not be familiar to most readers. This biographical section provides scientific details as well as fun facts. The subsequent sections, within each chapter, include field trip ideas, activities to support a particular animal's continued survival, and details on a specific scientific project that contributed to the study and protection of this species. What sounds in summary like a massive amount of information hooks readers from the beginning. It can be used by students at a variety of reading levels while providing many avenues of environmental exploration for all. The back matter includes a list of websites and resources for more information, arranged by species, as well as a bibliography and index. VERDICT A treasure trove of animals, familiar as well as not so well-known, and the scientists and activists who help them survive and thrive.-Susan Lissim

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