(3) 4-6 Before They Were Pets series. Zeaman presents an intriguing look at bird domestication, including information on bird evolution, the first human attempts at taming (including geese and jungle fowl for food, doves and pigeons for communication, and raptors for hunting), and the history of domestication of birds for pleasure. Reproductions and color photos add to the liveliness of the presentation. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jackie C. Horne

(4) 4-6 Before They Were Pets series. Why would people want to keep moose, jaguars, even eels, as pets? Zeaman attempts to explain their appeal, and to present information on the differences between a pet and a captive animal, which exotic creatures make the best pets, and how to care for orphaned or injured wild animals. Illustrated by crisply reproduced photographs, the book is marred by Zeaman's mixed message, which seems confused as to whether or not it's okay to keep exotic and wild pets. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: Jackie C. Horne

(3) 4-6 Before They Were Pets series. The first title covers the evolution of the horse and includes a description of the parts of the horse, gaits, and various breeds, along with basic information about history and behavior. The second title provides an overview of guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, and ferrets. Captioned color photographs and information boxes accompany the simple text in each book.

Reviewer: Sujei Lugo

(3) 4-6 Before They Were Pets series. The first title covers the evolution of the horse and includes a description of the parts of the horse, gaits, and various breeds, along with basic information about history and behavior. The second title provides an overview of guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, mice, hamsters, gerbils, and ferrets. Captioned color photographs and information boxes accompany the simple text in each book.

Reviewer: Sujei Lugo

(3) 4-6 Before They Were Pets series. A straightforward text explains how and why these popular pets became domesticated; how selective breeding has created today's variety of breeds; and how domesticated dog and cat behavior correlates to that of their wild counterparts. Informative sidebars and well-captioned color photos enhance these books. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.

(3) 4-6 Before They Were Pets series. A straightforward text explains how and why these popular pets became domesticated; how selective breeding has created today's variety of breeds; and how domesticated dog and cat behavior correlates to that of their wild counterparts. Informative sidebars and well-captioned color photos enhance these books. Bib., glos., ind.

Reviewer: The Horn Book, Inc.