The Wild World Handbook: Habitats

Gr 3 Up–Young people interested in conservation and climate activism or merely getting closer to nature will find much to expand their knowledge here. The book describes nine habitats such as forests, mountains, deserts, cities, and freshwater. Each chapter is patterned the same way with an introduction, fast facts, two biographies, a natural wonder, a field trip, an environmental success story, a DIY project, and stewardship suggestions. The chapters can be read independently and out of order. The biographies are a strong part of each chapter. The women, men, and children profiled are an international group who have positively impacted the environment. Many were first in their field, such as Junko Tabei, the first woman to summit Mount Everest, while others are responsible for national and international legislation and protections, such as Minerva Hamilton Hoyt, who advocated for the creation of California’s Joshua Tree National Monument. All invite further investigation. The DIY projects have clear instructions and can be completed at different levels. The environmental success stories offer some optimism with victories for the natural world (mountain gorilla protections; Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve). Orlando’s full-color drawings beautifully capture all the important aspects of each chapter. Back matter includes websites, a bibliography, and index.