11/01/2021
Gr 3–5—The impacts of invasive species and the techniques scientists use to control them are covered in this up-to-date series. Opening scenes describe the animals or scientists in action, though most of the descriptions are not especially engaging. A look at how threats from each species grew is followed by examples of conservation strategies from scientists. Some are fascinating, such as the "tiny radio tracker" that helps to locate the nests of murder hornets (Murder Hornets Invade Honeybee Colonies). More general preventive efforts such as alerting the public and inter-agency collaboration are also noted. Background information is not always thorough; readers learn that American bullfrogs are "not a problem" in their native home, for example, but not where that native home is located (American Bullfrogs Invade Swamps and Ponds). Most of the full-page photos are rather static, with little interaction between animals or the scientists, resulting in limited visual impact. VERDICT Imperfect, but worth considering for its current coverage of some unusual animals.
