Let's Make a Difference: We Can Help Orangutans

K-Gr 2—The orangutan population is being severely impacted by the loss of the jungle habitat on which it depends for food and shelter; the primates now exist only on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. Timbering and palm oil farming are the greatest threats to these endangered creatures. In an attempt to interest readers in their plight, the authors try to humanize them and to show their many similarities to children. "Orangutans are a lot like you: smart, funny, handy." Full-color photographs mixed with cartoon characters show baby orangutans with their mothers, playing, and eating. Basic information, such as facts about diet and behavior, are presented. Text boxes offer random information, but little in the way of explanation. For example, it is noted that orangutans have opposable thumbs, but no reason is given as to why this is important. In order to help orangutans, children are encouraged to save their pennies, go to a bank, and exchange the coins for dollars. Then they are to ask an adult to use a credit card to send funds to one of the organizations listed. Children are also told they can help by using sustainable palm oil, but there is no explanation about how they would be able to find out which palm oils are acceptable and which are not. The illustrations may interest students who are curious about primates and may enhance their concern about endangered species, but the information is limited.—Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, formerly at Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY