Galapagos:Islands of Change, written by Leslie Bulion and illustrated by Becca Stadtlander. Peachtree, Penguin Random House. 2023. $24.99 ages 8 and up

 

"Galapagos Giant Tortoises

Rain-plumped
prickly pear pads 
provide succulent sustenance
for saddle-backed 
giants. 

To succeed on older, weathered islands,
tortoises' shells slowly evolved from dome
shapes into saddle shapes that allowed 
them to stretch their necks to reach the 
tall prickly pear cacti growing in those 
hotter, drier landscapes."

In her introduction Ms. Bulion describes how the Galapagos ecosystem developed over million of years. As the islands were formed, plants and animals rode strong winds toward them. Only the very resilient could survive the journey and adapt to the islands' conditions. They evolved into species that are only found there. Every year they adapt to the changing winds, currents, and water temperature. The challenges faced by the ecosystem today date back 500 years to the arrival of humans.  

The verses penned for this excellent collection are arranged on pristine settings that speak to the clear waters and beauty found there. They are complemented with further comments in smaller font that add context and material relevant to the learning. Marine and land life are featured on double-page spreads that give readers an unmistakeable look at this unparalleled ecosystem.

Readers learn about seasons, sea mist, Galapagos penguins, giant tortoises, food-energy producing phytoplankton, iguanas, insects, plants, three different types of boobies, and the six finches that Charles Darwin documented when he spent time there. 

"Galapagos Finches
Seed picker, fruit shredder, flower sipper, 
insect tweezer, seed cruncher, twig dipper. 

Over time, 
slight shape changes - 
finch beak variations - 
can open new food options. 
That's adaptation." 

Back matter begins with climate change and how it is upsetting the natural balance around the world. There are protections in place for the Galapagos and conservationists are working to remove invasive species. Threats come in many human forms. Hard work by everyone can change the direction of the challenges faced when we agree to learn more, to respect and care for what we have.  

A Galapagos glossary, a map of the islands themselves, notes on the poetry, places to look to for conservancy help, lists for further reading and a species list are appended.