KAJO AND AKARI'S NEW FRIEND

Gr 3–5—The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Facing the Future, and several other human service agencies have set out to raise funds and awareness as they spur readers into environmental and humanitarian action. The original stories, written mainly by young women and children participating in one of the sponsoring agencies' programs, read like modern-day folktales. Anthropomorphic animals work together to overcome problems caused by changes in the environment or by human encroachment on their habitats. Informational back matter is extensive and includes a brief overview of the African country, data on the featured animal and its endangered status, plus a letter from one of the local wildlife managers funded by the WCS. Background on the authors and the collaborating agencies is also included. Different illustrators result in different painterly treatments with Ndeze and Honey being the most realistic and Sam the most Disneyfied. In spite of their unsophisticated treatments, these books could inspire readers to get involved.—Carol S. Surges, Longfellow Middle School, Wauwatosa, WI