ANIMAL DOCTORS /ANGLAIS - Hardcover

Julio Antonio Blasco is an illustrator, painter and designer who has previously published three other books for children, including Animal Architects. His book Sofia o el Pendolaje won four awards. His latest book, La Ladrona de Sellos, is to be published shortly by Edelvives. Mark Doran is a consultant neurologist with 30 years experience working in various hospitals in the UK. Mark is a former senior lecturer in Neurology at the University of Liverpool and Cambridge University, and has a passion for research and the wide diffusion of science. Angie Trius is a doctor in veterinary medicine with a special interest in food science and technology. She has worked in the area of food ingredients in the USA and Europe for more than 20 years. In 2002 she co-founded a small contract research company that provides worldwide technical expertise in the area of hydrocolloids.

Gr 3–6—How do animals in the wild deal with parasites, pain, digestive problems, birth, and more? This work explains the natural ways in which domesticated and wild creatures help keep themselves healthy without human assistance. An elephant about to give birth will go miles to seek out a beneficial tree that will ease her labor. Macaws will ingest clay to rid themselves of the toxins contained in some of their food supply. Dogs lick their injuries to spread their healing saliva, and cats eat grass to induce vomiting. Readers will be fascinated to learn butterflies, ants, rats, and even bears all have developed self-healing practices to ensure a longer, healthier life. Cartoonlike illustrations in muted colors enhance each spread. Information is given regarding characteristics, habitat, predators, and general behavior. Foldout flaps provide additional content in a concise manner. Children interested in animal behavior will find the material appealing, although the somewhat random organization makes this title less useful for research. VERDICT A complex but intriguing selection. Consider for robust animal —Eva Elisabeth VonAncken, formerly at Trinity-Pawling School, Pawling, NY