Galapagos Islands: Nature's Delicate Balance at Risk (Discovery!) [Hardcover]

Linda Tagliaferro (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Gr 5-8-An introduction focusing on the unique biology and the conservation issues that this region presents. Tagliaferro begins with a discussion of the volcanic origins of the islands and takes readers through to the present-day problems, such as introduced species and an increasing human population. In her accessible text she impresses upon readers the distinctiveness of the zoology of the islands-many species are found no place else in the world-and explains their importance in the ecological scheme. There are chapters about some of the well-known animal inhabitants, how they have adapted to environmental change, and threats to their survival. Readers will learn about the most up-to-date methods that scientists are using, from testing the DNA of tortoises to implanting a computer microchip in them for tracking purposes, in an effort to preserve threatened species. The book's uncluttered format and color photographs and illustrations add to its appeal. For public and school libraries.

Michele Capozzella, Chappaqua Public Library, NY

Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Gr. 4-8. Tagliaferro introduces the Galapagos Islands, a Pacific archipelago west of Ecuador, and discusses its geological development, historical significance, and current status as the home of many animal species found nowhere else on earth. Devoting a chapter each to the Galapagos giant tortoises, birds, and iguanas, she takes readers up close for a study of the animals and a look at the forces that threaten them and those that protect them. Appendixes include a glossary and lists of books, videos, and Internet resources for further study. Focused on a limited number of species, the lively, informative text offers an opportunity to understand what is unique about the islands. Excellent illustrations, including maps and many clear, colorful photos, appear throughout the book. A fine introduction to the wildlife of the Galapagos. Carolyn Phelan
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Product Details

• Hardcover: 88 pages
• Publisher: Lerner Publications (February 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0822506483
• ISBN-13: 978-0822506485
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 7.6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,132,190 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I'm the author of this book, November 7, 2002

By 

Linda Tagliaferro - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Galapagos Islands: Nature's Delicate Balance at Risk (Discovery!) (Hardcover)

I'm the author of "Galapagos Islands," and I'd like to say that I hope you enjoyed "leafing" through the digital pages. I did a great deal of research in writing this book and I hope that my readers come away with a sense of the amazing biodiversity in the islands. It was written for young adults, but adults will also enjoy learning about the islands from my book.

"Galapagos Islands: Nature's Delicate Balance at Risk" was chosen as an Outstanding Science Trade Book for Children by the National Science Teachers Association, and as a Society of School Librarians International Honor Book. The Bank Street College of Education also chose it as one of the Best Children's Books of the Year.