Spotted Owl: Bird of the Ancient Forest (Redfeather Books.) - Hardcover

Grade 3-5?Although Guiberson does include information about the spotted owl, she ranges broadly to consider ecological and economic issues related to the reduction of the old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest. She also summarizes the history of logging and recent scientific studies that have resulted in some logging bans. Economic hardships, not only from reduced timber cutting, but also from mechanization of many lumbering tasks are addressed. Unfortunately, stylistic and grammatical problems weaken the otherwise fine presentation. The book's strengths include the attractive and informative drawings, diagrams, and archival and modern photographs, all of which complement the simple but accurate descriptions of the old-growth ecosystem, and the explanation of its unique features. Until recently these topics have been ignored almost entirely in children's books. A serviceable additon.?Kathy Piehl, Mankato State University, MN
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 3-6. In discussing the spotted owl, its behavior, and how its survival is threatened, Guiberson also describes the plants and animals of its natural habitat: the old-growth forests of the Pacific Northwest. The book shows how the survival of one species depends on the protection of its entire ecosystem, while acknowledging the regional economic problems caused by job loss in the timber industry as well as the strong feelings expressed on both sides of the spotted-owl controversy. Illustrations in this appealingly designed volume include black-and-white drawings of animals, early-twentieth-century photographs of loggers, and beautiful, full-color photos of the spotted owl and its habitat. A simple yet many-faceted introduction to an endangered species and the complex issues raised by its protection. Bibliography appended. Carolyn Phelan