I say it all the time, but I absolutely ADORE a non-fiction picture book that I can read-aloud to my students! This one is PERFECT! The story is compelling, there is the right amount of information, and it has stunning illustrations on every page.
I love learning about wolves, and I have read extensively about how losing wolves (due to over-hunting & intentional extermination) impacts the life-cycle of all animals & plants in the area. This book does an excellent job telling about this history, in an appropriate and approachable way for children.
I really liked how the images of each animal turned to "white" to show them disappearing, as the life cycle was being affected.
And finally, and most importantly, I loved how the author notes the inspiration from Indigenous tribes, and their love & deep appreciation for the natural cycle of life.
"It honors me to belong to this Tribe and be part of bringing back the wolves. This was meant to be because they were here since the mountains." Nez Perce, Tribal Member (Ken Bourgeau, Jr.)
The timeline and additional resources at the end of the book was also a nice touch!
Be sure to check this one out!
Synopsis: "Where did all the wolves go? The birds, the fish, and the beavers? When the top predator was wiped out, the balance of nature in Yellowstone National Park was disrupted. The circle was broken.
Written in a lyrical style, Why Wolves Matter is an ecological tale that helps children to understand the interconnectedness of all things in the natural world. Once all the wolves were gone, the elk population grew so large that the trees and vegetation on which they fed disappeared, throwing the Park and the remaining wildlife into disarray.
A nonfiction picture book, including a timeline and bibliography, Why Wolves Matter is about the importance of the top predator in nature, how balance was restored in Yellowstone National Park, and how the circle was made whole again—with important historical and scientific relevance for children.
A deeply committed animal person, Karen B. Winnick has created many picture books about animals. She’s a member of an oversight commission for the Los Angeles Zoo, and a member and supporter of many groups working to save animals, including wolves."
Giveaway: Readers who join us on this virtual tour can win a hardcover copy of Why Wolves Matter: A Conservation Success Story. One lucky winner will receive a signed hardcover copy and a $25 gift card to Amazon. Don’t miss out on your chance to win below!
Review in partnership with Karen B. Winnick and the Children's Book Review.
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