(2) K-3 Illustrated by Chuck Groenink. The first half of this informational picture book is narrated by the collective “we” of generations of humpback whales: “Before there were ships and streets and buildings and a city called New York, we were here.” Subsequent pages depict whales and other sea creatures cavorting in what would soon become New York Harbor, with devastating harpooning and ship traffic and choking pollution to follow. The once-rich waters are no longer habitable, and the whales take off for “cleaner waters and a safer home.” In a (somewhat abrupt) turn, the art and text shift perspective, moving onto the land, and the narrative “we” becomes the voice of New York’s human inhabitants in the decades before and after passage of the Clean Water Act in 1972. Diverse groups of New ­Yorkers are shown marching in support of environmental action; later, people clear litter from the river and enjoy boating, fishing, and other activities—eventually rejoined by a new generation of New York Harbor whales. Detailed back matter includes whale facts, a timeline, brief profiles of significant activists, and calls to action. Castaldo’s text, accompanied by Groenink’s detailed and expansive gouache and graphite illustrations, offers hope for aspiring citizen activists and makes a compelling case for taking the long view and not giving up the fight.

Reviewer: | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2025

(3) 4-6 While many American animals are endangered, the seven profiled here have come back from the brink of extinction. Each chapter discusses the reason for the species' decline and the efforts that resulted in rising numbers; a final chapter suggests actions to help endangered wildlife. Plenty of photos illustrate the clear text, and sidebars provide additional information about related topics and "eco-heroes." Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Janet Dawson

(3) YA Castaldo explores the scientific evidence for animal intelligence, emotions, and communication--from early observational studies to contemporary experiments that show the cognitive capabilities of monkeys, dogs, dolphins, and crows. The ethics of animal-human interactions are also considered. The well-chosen photographs include close-ups that capture emotive facial expressions and action shots of behaviors that reveal thought processes. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Danielle J. Ford

(3) 4-6 Castaldo offers a matter-of-fact overview of the ways in which dogs, and their highly developed sense of smell, aid humans by detecting bombs, cadavers, illegal drugs, and more. Anatomical information about dogs and their senses is exceptionally clear. Photographs of the real-life canine heroes discussed add a personal and endearing touch. Reading list, websites. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Betty Carter

(4) 4-6 National Geographic Kids Mission series. These comprehensive introductions feature facts about the titular animal, anecdotes about individuals, updates from scientists working in the field, and challenges to species survival. Each chapter ends with "rescue activities," ranging from simple energy-saving suggestions to specific ways to help these animals to vague political actions. Excellent photos are eye-catching, but the page design is busy. Reading list, websites. Ind. Review covers the following titles: Mission: Elephant Rescue and Mission: Polar Bear Rescue.

Reviewer: Grace Worcester Greene