Prairie Dogs in Danger

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.