LIFE AT THE ZOO

A behind-the-scenes look at zoo animals, large and small, and their keepers.

Filled with appealing, occasionally dramatic photos taken at eight zoos in the U.S. and Germany (including a boarding school in New York State that houses its own zoo), this informative book is divided into thematic two-page spreads on subjects including baby animals, behavioral development, training, and medicine. Each section features one or two specific animals, often named and pictured, to personalize the narrative. In a spread headed “Where Do Zoo Babies Come from?” it is noted that although walrus “Ginger was born in captivity to her parents Garfield and Kaboodle” (the names of some animals will be a source of amusement), her new friend Aku “was found by gold miners in Alaska, separated from his mother and desperately in need of food and water” and transported to Orlando by a rescue team. The author uses this story to counter the opinion that people “fear animals are stolen from the wild” and taken to zoos. The animal workers for the most part present white. Throughout the book, there is an emphasis on the skills and caring attitudes of the various zoo staff members, which may have readers wishing for information on preparation for these various jobs. Issues concerning climate change, conservation, and endangered species (all defined in the glossary) are briefly mentioned.

Engaging encounters with a variety of animals and the humans who intimately interact with them.