School Library Journal Review
Gr 6 Up-Using examples from around the world, the authors discuss various causes of habitat loss and fragmentation, along with conservation efforts and their results. A few in-depth case studies help readers understand the scope of the problems and possible solutions. "Science Connections" segments focus on natural cycles, biodiversity, and related concepts. Photos show wildlife, pollution, and human visitors or workers in the various areas, while graphics explain science concepts like habitat formation, carbon sinks, and food webs, or map locations of similar habitats. Groups such as Ducks Unlimited or individuals like Wangari Maathai, who are involved in conservation efforts, are highlighted in sidebars or mentioned in the text. Each title ends with a two-page cause-and-effect chart followed by "Essential Facts," which captures key points. VERDICT A thoughtful series for studying conservation efforts and human impact on the environment. A good choice for research projects. © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Horn Book Review
Each in-depth volume examines conservation issues in a major habitat, focusing on topics such as deforestation, pollution, invasive species, and climate change, as well as scientific and legal efforts to restore and revitalize plant and animal populations. Full-page "Science Connection" inserts touch on related background science. Large photographs clearly show humans' impact on the environment. A cause-and-effect diagram is appended. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind. [Review covers these Conservation Success Stories titles: Bringing Back Our Freshwater Lakes, Bringing Back Our Oceans, Bringing Back Our Tropical Forests, Bringing Back Our Deserts, Bringing Back Our Wetlands, and Bringing Back Our Tundra.] (c) Copyright 2019. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
*Starred Review* The Conservation Success Stories series does an outstanding job of examining the many forces that threaten specific biomes and their inhabitants; the causes and impacts of such endangerment; and steps that have been, or can be, taken to mitigate damage, revive the environment, and safeguard its future. It's easy for books to cast a doomsday vibe while discussing resource scarcity, endangered species, and global warming, but these manage to keep such discussions frank yet optimistic largely through their many examples of conservation victories. Oceans contrasts the dangers plastic debris pose to marine life with its use as currency (aka social plastic) in some poor countries, thereby incentivizing recycling and cleanup efforts. The design of these books is roomy and attractive, featuring many high-quality photos, Science Connection spreads, and relevant fact boxes often highlighting indigenous peoples' rights and plights within vulnerable areas. These wonderfully researched titles are valuable resources that allow readers to see the big picture surrounding complex environmental and social issues with hopeful eyes.--Smith, Julia Copyright 2018 Booklist
