Sea otters in danger

Solid information and excellent photographs make these titles in the Animals at Risk series a good choice for kids beginning to learn about endangered species. Each book explains how the subject animal has become nearly extinct and what is being done to increase their numbers. Sea Otters in Danger explains how these cuties have been hunted for their fur and lost their lives in oil spills. They are one of very few prehensile animals and use their paws to open shellfish. All books in the series feature captions that advance the text and short, informative Wild Facts. A fine introduction to a subject children will continue to learn about.--Cooper, Ilene Copyright 2010 Booklist

Gr 2-3-Combining basic species facts with information about endangerment threats, this set introduces animal conservation to younger readers. Opening pages describe behavior and physical features, with population status mentioned briefly. By easing into the bad news and coupling it with details of scientific efforts to address threats, the books strike a balance between alarming threats, potential solutions, and positive trends such as the recoveries of sea otters and white rhinos. The well-spaced main paragraphs are clearly written. "Wild Facts" text boxes provide tidbits of additional information. Species differences are neatly identified, as in the comparison of gray wolves' status to that of red wolves. Population numbers are easily accessible within the narratives, though Prairie Dogs regrettably lacks this data. Appealing full-page photographs mostly feature the animals in their habitats, avoiding images of capture and suffering and supporting the sensitive approach that is appropriate for the intended age level. (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.