From School Library Journal
Grade 5-8–A detailed, beautifully illustrated book. From the close-up photo of a tiger cub on the front cover to the gorgeous, clearly labeled, color and archival photos inside, the volume will grab the attention of browsers and researchers alike. Zoehfeld's narrative is enthusiastic and engaging; chapters cover the major figures, animal and human, responsible for the largely experimental development of the zoo. The highlighted quotes that open each chapter are sometimes vague or seem to be slightly out of context, but they add visual interest to the pages. The volume concludes with a montage of action shots.
Wild Lives will be useful to report writers and those interested in how zoos have evolved in the United States.
–Rebecca Stine, The Ferguson Library, Stamford, CT Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
From Booklist
Gr. 4-7. Zoehfeld tells the story of the Bronx Zoo, from the preparations for its opening in 1899 to its current efforts in the areas of conservation and education. Along with information on the zoo, she discusses trends in thinking about wildlife, the ethics of removing animals from their habitats for their safety or for public display, and ongoing threats to the existence of many species. By presenting the personal stories, beliefs, and actions of significant individuals in the zoo's history, Zoehfeld makes a strong case for the importance of zoos in developing public awareness of the plight of wild animals and their ecosystems. Appended is a source bibliography of books for adults and children, with bullets indicating those recommended for further reading. The many photos, attractive layout, and use of color contribute to the visual appeal of this informative zoo story.
Carolyn PhelanCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
