ANNOTATION

Surveys the history of the troubled relationship between wolves and humans, examines the view that these predators are a valuable part of the ecosystem, and describes the conservation movement to restore them to the wild.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

With powerful and rare photographs by Jim Brandenburg, Once a Wolf explores the long, troubled relationship between humans and wolves. The book traces the persecution of the wolf throughout history and also reveals the role scientists have played in wolf preservation. The work of scientists can often seem mysterious and intimidating to the nonscientist. No longer! Introducing an exciting perspective on the important work of scientists in all areas of research and study. Scientists in the Field show people immersed in the unpredictable and dynamic natural world, making science more accessible, relevant, and exciting to young readers. Far from the research laboratory, these books show first-hand adventures in the great outdoors - adventures with a purpose. From climbing into a snake den with thousands of slithering snakes to tracking wolves, readers experience the thrill of discovering the unknown.

FROM THE CRITICS

Hungry Mind Review

With stunning photos by acclaimed wildlife photographer Jim Brandenburg, Once a Wolf relates the importance of the wolf in our nation's wilderness.

KLIATT

This series consists of award-winning children's books with a lot of stunning pictures (many in full color), which should appeal to most middle-school students. Even with the frequent photographs and 48-page format, quite a lot of basic information is conveyed in text that is written at the level of a National Geographic article. This book focuses a lot of attention on the project that has re-introduced the wolf to the Yellowstone National Park. The careful planning and hard work of the field biologists, plus the history of prejudice against the wolf that necessitates a public relations campaign as part of the Yellowstone Project, make up the core of the book. (Scientists in the Field series) KLIATT Codes: J*—Exceptional book, recommended for junior high school students. 1999, Houghton Mifflin, Sandpiper, 48p. illus. bibliog. index. 23cm. 98-16865., $4.95. Ages 13 to 15. Reviewer: Claire Rosser; KLIATT , July 2001 (Vol. 35, No. 4)

Library Journal

Gr 5-8-Drawing on myth, legend, history, and science, Swinburne recounts the efforts of conservationists to reintroduce the wolf to the American landscape. Stunning photographs reflect the quiet dignity of this much-maligned creature. (May) Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.

School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-The excitement of science in action fills the pages of these two books. Montgomery focuses on one man and his research on the red-sided garter snake in Canada. The lively text communicates both the meticulous measurements required in this kind of work and the thrill of new discoveries. Large, full-color photos of the zoologist and young students at work, and lots of wriggly snakes, pull readers into the presentation. A list of "unsolved mysteries" about the snakes and instructions on visiting the snake dens will keep interest high to the very last page. Swinburne gives a historical perspective on the extermination of wolves from the Lower 48 states and details the work of biologists in their efforts to reintroduce the animals into Yellowstone National Park. Vintage illustrations (including pictures of dead wolves) and excellent full-color photos document a struggle that, unfortunately, is far from over. A map showing current and historical wolf ranges and a list for further reading that includes books, periodicals, and Web sites are helpful additions. Two outstanding titles that show scientists at work.-Ruth S. Vose, San Francisco Public Library Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information.

Hungry Mind Review

With stunning photos by acclaimed wildlife photographer Jim Brandenburg, Once a Wolf relates the importance of the wolf in our nation's wilderness.Read all 7 "From The Critics" >