Planet Ark: Preserving Earth's Biodiversity (CitizenKid)

"In many ways, our beautiful blue home--planet Earth--is like an ark sailing through the universe," writes Mason, drawing an analogy between the story of Noah's Ark and Earth's biodiversity in this thorough and informative addition to the CitizenKid line. Discussions of food chains, habitats, and such environmental threats follow. Thompson complements Mason's emphatic text with textured acrylic portraits of animals and ecosystems that resemble weathered tapestries. Closing pages offer examples of "modern-day Noahs" who have acted on behalf of protecting biodiversity, and ways kids can do the same. Ages 8-12. (Apr.)

Gr 4-6--While comparing the Earth to Noah's ark, the author presents a wide range of environmental concerns centering on the need to maintain biodiversity. Loss of habitat, destruction of top soil, invasions by alien species, and overexploitation of resources have all resulted in the loss of countless species of animal and plant life. Each spread discusses a single topic such as habitat preservation or global warming in relation to biodiversity. Urging readers to become modern-day Noahs and work to save the Earth's precious resources, the book encourages the usual Reduce, Recycle, and Reuse but adds some additional suggestions. By Refusing unnecessary purchases and Rejoicing in the natural world, children are urged to emulate the example offered by young people throughout the world who have taken steps to combat the destruction of the environment in their countries. Illustrated with soft-toned pastel images of a variety of animals and habitats, the book seems aimed at a younger audience than the serious situations presented by the text would indicate. Still, it would be useful for classrooms studying the importance of biodiversity and other aspects of environmental science.--Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, formerly at Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY