Book Descriptions
for Back from the Brink by Nancy F. Castaldo
From Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)
Following an opening chapter detailing efforts that led to passage of the Endangered Species Act in in 1973, subsequent chapters focus on efforts to save 7 species: whooping cranes, wolves, bald eagles, giant Galápagos tortoises, California condors, American alligators, and American bison. Each chapter includes the reason(s) the species’ population declined (often multiple factors, including specific types of pollution impacting mortality or ability to reproduce, hunting, and destruction of habitat) as well as information about one or more efforts to bring that animal back from the brink. (The work of the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo is the main focus of the chapter on whooping cranes.) Sidebars throughout provide intriguing tidbits, whether debunking myths about “big bad wolves,” profiling a father/daughter duo who have volunteered to help condors, or providing more information on specific legislation, or kinds of pollution. Color photographs add appeal throughout, while a final “Call to Action” chapter suggests ways to get involved. The ample end matter includes where to go for more information on each of the efforts and animals profiled, a glossary, and index. (Ages 10–14)
CCBC Choices 2019. © Cooperative Children's Book Center, Univ. of Wisconsin - Madison, 2019. Used with permission.
From the Publisher
True stories of how scientists are saving endangered species, with photos included: “Readers will be moved by Castaldo’s appreciation for these animals.” —Booklist (starred review)
In this book, the acclaimed author of Sniffer Dogs details the successful efforts of scientists to bring threatened animals back from the brink of extinction.
How could capturing the last wild California condors help save them? Why are some states planning to cull populations of the gray wolf, despite this species only recently making it off the endangered list? How did a decision made during the Civil War to use alligator skin for cheap boots nearly drive the animal to extinction?
Back from the Brink answers these questions and more as it delves into the threats to seven species, and the scientific and political efforts to coax them back from the brink. This rich, informational look at the problem of extinction offers a source of hope—all of these animals’ numbers are now on the rise—and will inspire young wildlife lovers and aspiring scientists.
Winner of the Crystal Kite Award and a Sigurd F. Olsen Best Nature book Honorable Mention
In this book, the acclaimed author of Sniffer Dogs details the successful efforts of scientists to bring threatened animals back from the brink of extinction.
How could capturing the last wild California condors help save them? Why are some states planning to cull populations of the gray wolf, despite this species only recently making it off the endangered list? How did a decision made during the Civil War to use alligator skin for cheap boots nearly drive the animal to extinction?
Back from the Brink answers these questions and more as it delves into the threats to seven species, and the scientific and political efforts to coax them back from the brink. This rich, informational look at the problem of extinction offers a source of hope—all of these animals’ numbers are now on the rise—and will inspire young wildlife lovers and aspiring scientists.
Winner of the Crystal Kite Award and a Sigurd F. Olsen Best Nature book Honorable Mention
Publisher description retrieved from Google Books.
