Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1064249 in Books
• Published on: 1998-08-01
• Released on: 1998-08-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 48 pages

From School Library Journal
Grade 4-7-Lemurs have been the subject of several recent books. What makes this one different is the author's dual expertise as researcher in primate behavior and as a wildlife artist. In a format resembling a sketch diary, Powzyk relates her experiences studying the inhabitants of the Madagascan rain forest detailing in subdued yet rich watercolors the wide-eyed night creatures she meets. Through her eyes, readers see that though these animals share many characteristics, each type of lemur is unique in appearance and behavior. The author also describes village life and the damage to subsistence rice culture resulting from the destruction of the rain forest and stresses the importance of a healthy ecosystem. An introduction and map orient readers. Kathy Darling's Lemurs (Lothrop, 1998) studies the same animal in a photo-essay, as does Kathryn Lasky's Shadows in the Dawn (Harcourt, 1997), which follows researcher Allison Jolley in her work. It is Powzyk's art that sets her book apart.
Ruth S. Vose, San Francisco Public Library
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist
Gr. 4^-7. Powzyk's appealing, informative, first-person account documents her experiences as a scientist observing wildlife in the lush mountain rain forest of Madagascar. Searching primarily for lemurs, she also encounters other fascinating birds, animals, plants, and insects, capturing their images in beautifully rendered, expressive watercolor sketches. Not merely a scientist's notebook detailing animal life, the narrative is also a fascinating story of human survival as Powzyk copes with leeches, mold and damp, and two-foot-long earthworms, not to mention an endless diet of rice, beans, and canned corned beef. Although Powzyk is frank about the tedium of waiting (a large part of the observation process), her enthusiasm and delight are infectious as she comes face to face with the lemurs of her search. The descriptive, conversational prose is reader friendly and includes pronunciation for all difficult terms; the present tense adds drama and immediacy to the author's adventures. Scientifically educational as well as an engaging read, the book serves as a fine introduction to rain forests and their various inhabitants. Shelle Rosenfeld

Customer Reviews

wonderful classic naturalist's account
This is a wonderful account of what it is like to be a primatologist, searching for the world's most beautiful and rare primates on the most exotic island of Madagascar. The text is engaging and the illustrations, also done by the author, are spectacular. This is a great book for grown ups who want to learn more about lemurs and Madagascar, or for children who want to do a book report. The book provides a hopeful message of conservation.

Great for Kids
This is a wonderfully informative book for kids to learn about the wildlife of Madagascar. The text is easy to read & filled with descriptive info presented in an absorbing manner. Illustrations are provided on each page, and they are quite beautiful. I was pleasantly surprised to find Dr. Patricia Wright's name mentioned in this book, as her research work on lemurs is quite impressive & interesting!

An accurate & entertaining account of life in the rainforest
The illustrations in this book are a delight, and add to the story that this author has put together about her work in the rainforests of Madagascar. She depicts both the positive and the challenging (sometimes not so rosy) aspects of living and working in a remote rainforest location. It would be a treat for any young reader you know. Nature loving adults (lemur fans in particular!) will also get a kick out of this one. The stories are heartwarming, and accurate(I have worked at the site that inspired this book).