Reference Reviews

Lawrence Looks at Books

The Atlas of Endangered Animals: Wildlife under Threat around the World. Paula Hammond. New York: Marshall Cavendish, 2010. 978-0-7614-7872-0; 2008-44956. $69.95.

This British production examines the critical status of 50 of the thousands of endangered animals around the world. The arrangement is geographical with a selection of species presented from each continent (excepting Antarctica) and the world’s oceans. Coverage includes such high profile species as the African elephant, the chimpanzee, the Bengal Tiger, the New Zealand Kiwi, the European Sturgeon, wolverines, and the long-tailed chinchilla. Lesser-known species include the African aye-aye, the spectacled bear, the Australian potoroo and the North American lungless salamander. The oceans are represented by six species including the blue whale, the great white shark and the sea otter. Each entry consists of a four-page spread featuring the animal’s distinguishing characteristics and behaviors, range maps, numerous drawings and photographs illustrating methods of moving and feeding, as well as summaries of threats and conservation efforts. Many entries also include comparisons to related species. The hundreds of full-color illustrations make this volume particularly attractive for visually oriented audiences in middle schools and public libraries. Originally published in 2006 by Amber Books, Marshall Cavendish is now distributing this worthy volume for a wider international market.