Biodiversity [Hardcover]

Dorothy Hinshaw Patent (Author), William Munoz (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 18, 1996

A photo essay demonstrating the concept of biodiversity, a term used to encompass the many forms of life on Earth and their interdependence on one another for survival. The reader not only gets a firm grasp of what biodiversity is, but also an explanation of why it is important to maintain.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 5-9-Threads from Patent's personal experiences in Costa Rica and North America are woven with scientific strands to provide a perspective on the tapestried life that shapes our planet. The clearly written text, comfortably conversational in tone, is readily approachable and organized to lead novices through the unknown landscapes of DNA, natural selection, keystone species, and the like, with a minimum of mental discomfort. Examples have been carefully chosen to acquaint young people with the intricacies of interdependency and to explain why such a rich biodiversity is essential to planetary well-being. Also included are current efforts of scientific/conservation groups to name organisms before they vanish and to preserve habitats and the life forms that inhabit them. This lucid introduction is accompanied by bright, full-color photos, and its large format and well-planned layout are attractive and inviting. Even if you own Laurence Pringle's Living Treasure (Morrow, 1991), you should make space on the shelf for this lively new presentation.
Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Gr. 6^-10. The subject of biodiversity is as big as nature. It's about everything, or at least about the connections between everything. Only by focusing on particulars is it at all possible to explain some of the issues and processes. Patent uses lots of examples--of various habitats and ecosystems and keystone species--but nothing is discussed in depth, and the generalizations seem random. Many paragraphs could be in any chapter. The same thing applies to the glorious color photographs: it is not always clear how they relate to the pages they are on. It's those photographs, however, that will draw readers to the subject. This is a book for browsing, with an alluring cover, a handsome, spacious design, and a crucial message. Hazel Rochman

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 12 and up
  
• Hardcover: 112 pages
• Publisher: Clarion Books (October 18, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0395687047
• ISBN-13: 978-0395687048
• Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 8.4 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,593,943 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)