Review by Booklist Review
As a white-naped crane, Walnut was part of a dwindling species. The others in captivity were closely related, so it was important that she, whose parents had been wild, reproduce. Unfortunately, she had imprinted on a human early on in her life. In her mind, she was human too. When sent to zoos for mating, she lashed out at male cranes who approached her. She was sent to a zoo in Virginia, where Chris Crowe, the new crane keeper, took care of her. At first, Walnut was aggressive, but after years of patience and many treats, Crowe gained her trust. She sat quietly for injections, which enabled her to lay fertilized eggs, and she helped her species by raising seven chicks. Pincus' telling of this true story is sympathetic to both Walnut and to Crowe, whose boyhood experience of seeing a bison inspired his career choice. O'Mara, a Scottish artist, illustrates the story with great warmth. The back matter offers further information on Walnut, crane species, and animal imprinting. A picture book with broad appeal.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Walnut, the white-naped crane, has a long and fulfilling life thanks to help and patience from wildlife keeper Chris Crowe. Born in 1981, Walnut is an unusual crane who imprinted on a human as a chick. This upbringing meant that she rebuffed potential mates, which concerned conservationists, since her genes were crucial to the survival of her species. Walnut was sent to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, where she met Chris Crowe, a wildlife keeper with a special devotion to animals. His unusual methods and complete dedication to Walnut enabled her to give birth to seven chicks over 11 years, an important contribution to the crane population. This compelling tale about the unique connection between bird and humanity will help young readers understand the harm humans have done to the world's wildlife and the ensuing responsibility they have to make things better for creatures. The illustrations enrich the narrative with stunning close-ups of Walnut and other birds taking flight against a warm, sunset sky. Backmatter includes information about Walnut, other white-naped cranes, and animal imprinting, along with a Q & A with Chris Crowe. Readers will finish the book with empathy for Walnut and appreciation for the work conservationists do. The story successfully demonstrates Crow's long-held mantra: "If humans harm wildlife species, then humans must save them." Crowe and other humans have tan skin. An informative, richly illustrated call to action. (websites and further reading, bibliography, glossary)(Picture book. 6-9) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
