You Can't See a Dodo at the Zoo (2005) is an admirable attempt to teach a troubling topic--animal extinction. Fred Ehrlich, M.D. wrote this chapter book of facts about dinosaurs, extinct birds, extinct mammals, and endangered animals. The casual looking font and Amanda Haley's cartoonish illustrations take the sting out of this depressing subject. I think the lighthearted poems that interrupt the text are meant to help children remember the material. They don't always work, for example, "Deinonychus doesn't look like-us." is awkward, yet I found Ehrlich's attempts at rhyme endearing. The final page of the book is a glossary. While the illustrations do not appeal to me, they give the book an informal feel that may ease readers into the frightening prospect losing endangered species.
"We need roads, and towns, and farms, and factories. But most creatures cannot live where we do. What we can do, however, is be aware that every change we make affects other living creatures. Then we can make responsible decisions about how we can take care of ourselves while doing the least harm to other living things." This book feels like a heartfelt conversation between Ehrlich and future generations.
Flipping for First has Endangered and Extinct Animals: Flip charts and Worksheets. Maren Brown has Whales: Saving Endangered Animals A Life Lesson About Helping Others. Classroom of Creativity has Endangered Species Habitats.
