ALL THE KING'S ANIMALS

A contemporary African success story to please all budding conservationists. Glossy full-color photographs and a readable if adulatory text describe the efforts of those in the small country of Swaziland to establish preserves and reintroduce an entire range of plains and wetland animals that once flourished there. Kessler's first book documents the work of naturalist Ted Reilly, who began to convert his family farm in Swaziland into a nature preserve 30 years ago: He collected seeds, created wetlands, engaged the interest and support of King Sobhuza II, and eventually coordinated the implementation of preserves in four percent of Swaziland. There were setbacks and successes, as well as controversy: Kessler, whose tone is mostly admiring, indicates that Reilly has had his detractors. Many quotes from Reilly and the king of Swaziland make this quite accessible, inspiring fare. (pronunciation guide, index) (Picture book/nonfiction. 8-12)