Mass Extinction: Examining the Current Crisis (Discovery!)

Tricia Andryszewski writes on a variety of topics for both elementary children and young adults. Her books include Terrorism in America; School Prayer: A History of the Debate; Kosovo: The Splintering of Yugoslavia; Marjory Stoneman Douglas; Gay Rights; Abortion; and Walking the Earth: The History of Human Migration.

“Are the scientists who believe that most of the planet’s species are dying right? . . . Do we even know enough to answer that question? If not, by the time we do know the answer, will it be too late to do anything about it?” Andryszewski, an experienced nonfiction writer, tackles a hot topic here—the current, accelerated loss of biodiversity on Earth, which many scientists believe is in the midst of its “sixth great mass extinction.” In this contribution to the Discovery! series, the author presents the science in an attractive format, with lots of color photos and boxed quotes on thick, high-quality paper. The prose, however, is sometimes dense and difficult. But high-school readers will be drawn by the fascinating facts about the effects of climate change, invasive species, poisons, and especially about the role of humans and what they can do to prevent further damage. Well suited to curriculum research or personal-interest reading, the volume concludes with source notes and a useful bibliography of books and Web sites. Grades 9-12. --Hazel Rochman