(3) 1-3 Illustrated by Jamie Littler. In this third super-silly installment in the illustrated British series, worry-prone Wilf must once again stop a scheme by his evil neighbor Alan, this time while the two families visit Zambia. Wilf's little sister, his loyal woodlouse sidekick, new (human) friend Abi, and some worry-busting tips help Wilf overcome his anxiety in time to keep Alan from destroying the world with his zany inventions.

Reviewer: Kari Allen

(3) 4-6 Citizen Kid series. Illustrated by Pedro Covo. Written in an engaging storylike style, this account of an orphaned elephant also includes photos and facts about elephant rescue in southern Africa. When teenager Aaron pulls baby elephant Zambezi out of a swimming pool, he becomes Zambezi's keeper and only human caregiver at an elephant nursery. Atmospheric mixed-media paintings accompany the moving story. "How You Can Help" section appended. Glos.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(3) 4-6 Dramatic color photographs enhance this poignant, engaging account of the Liuwa Plain National Park and its tumultuous history. After exploring the Zambian preserve's ecosystem and rapid decline, the text follows Lady, Liuwa's last lion, whose plight spurred a massive conservation movement. Discussion of the park's slow restoration, through stewardship and species reintroduction, highlights the intricate balance of nature while avoiding hyperbole. Glos., ind.

Reviewer: Russell Perry

(4) 4-6 In the Zambian bush, pet dogs are a rarity; however, little Bulu survives the odds. He even finds a unique calling: "parenting" orphaned wild animals being rehabilitated by his English owners. In a straightforward style, Houston relates exciting tales of Bulu's life. The book lacks a central narrative arc and may be best enjoyed by reading aloud individual chapters. Glos.

Reviewer: Lauren Aimonette LIang

(4) 4-6 Young Heroes series. This series highlights teenagers (now young adults) who have made a difference, either by starting their own charitable organizations (Shuyler and Dalio) or by supporting a cause (Hill and Kachepa). The books explore such topics as childhood influences and steps toward activism. The writing is choppy, but readers may be inspired by the stories. Photographs break up the dense pages. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Young Heroes titles: Ashley Shuyler, Julia Butterfly Hill, Given Kachepa, and Matt Dalio.

Reviewer: Hannah Rodgers Barnaby

(1) K-3 Here's a life-enhancing folktale from Zambia--how birds got their black markings--and a simple, scissors-and-brush way of using collage. Silhouetted birds, in shades of violet, yellow, green, blue, are oddly drab without markings. Ringdove asks Blackbird, the most beautiful, to paint him a necklace of black; Blackbird complies, then promises the others touches of black, too. In sum, we can all partake of the beauty of black.

Reviewer: | Horn Book Magazine Issue: March, 2003