Humans and animals frequently find themselves to be in uncomfortable proximity. These books encourage readers to understand their wild neighbors, to learn how the animals might be important to the environment, to think about their own relationship with them, and to seek out community members such as zookeepers or policemen who might have further knowledge and experience to impart. The titles introduce the animal, look at it in more detail, and suggest solutions to the clash in habitats. Some of the animals covered are predators and need to be avoided, while others need our protection. The books are illustrated with up-close color photographs of the animals; most are shown in their natural habitats; Raccoons shows the animals sifting through garbage cans, trying to open plastic bags, and sneaking around domestic cats as they enter human territory. These titles are especially useful at steering the topic to an issue many readers can relate to"”protecting their pets. While children cannot make all of the decisions that involve sharing outdoor spaces with a wild animal, they can certainly take a proactive role in ensuring their domestic animals’ safety. Kids who like their nonfiction local and relatable will relish these volumes.

SLJ April 2010 Series Made Simple