"In Toronto, there are more than 350 species of
native bees. Some, like the Virginia carpenter
bee, can grow to the size of a quarter and make
their nests in soft wood (you can hear them digging
if you listen close enough). Others, like sweat bees,
are bright green and tiny. And some, like the
common eastern plasterer bee, which often appears
first in the spring, dig their nests in the ground."
This is Cylita Guy's first book of nonfiction, and she does it up right. In it, she and ten urban ecologists like her are highlighted for the work they do in studying how a variety of species have adapted to life in cities. There is a reason for that. As the numbers of people living in cities around the world continues to grow, more and more natural spaces are lost. The animals, insects and plants that once inhabited these spaces are forced from their homes. Some do not survive; others are able to thrive.
Each scientist, whose work is highlighted, shares stories, research, and adventure. They also offer a challenge for readers, encouraging them to get out into nature, listen and learn, watch and record what is going on where they live. There are eight chapters, and each one of them ends with a new and doable challenge.
"Find a garden somewhere. Take a look
at the flowers. What kind of insects do
you seen visiting them? Can you snap a
picture of one? You can use this picture
to try and find out what species it is using
books or the internet."
Their stories are funny, terrifying, intense, and even racist. They offer good advice, entertain, and inform. Questions asked require critical thinking, and discussion. Can city bees help us learn more about climate change? Through observation and further research, changes can be made to makes cities healthier for all that live there, not just people. Sidebars offer many additional facts concerning the research being done and the knowledge being gained.
This is another book that encourages getting out into nature to begin to understand ways in which interaction can be beneficial and peaceful. Meant for older readers, it provides sensitive recognition for the idea of acceptance and understanding for those creatures who want to survive in new environments since they have been stripped of their old ones.
Cornelia Li's mixed media artwork interprets the interactions between scientists and wildlife. Rich colors and eye-catching silhouettes offer visual details for the work being done, and add context for the encounters.
The closing resource list is extensive and encourages further investigation. The included index is useful when wanting to return to something of particular interest.
"Learn more about animals and plants
not included in this book. Get involved
in a local volunteer or community science
project. Find out what you can do to help
conserve the species that live in your city."
No comments:
Post a Comment