West Coast Wild Rainforest, written by Deborah Hodge and illustrated by Karen Reczuch. Groundwood, 2024. $21.99 ages 7 and up

"Bears, wolves, and eagles feast on the 
spawning salmon. They carry their 
catch into the forest, eating the best 
parts of the fish, and leaving leftovers
that decompose and fertilize the 
plants and trees. In this wonderful 
cycle of nature, the trees protect the 
salmon and the salmon feed the trees."

This is the fourth book in an inviting and informative series by this very successful team. The first three are: West Coast Wild: A Nature Alphabet, West Coast Wild Babies, and West Coast Wild at Low Tide. Each is a worthwhile way for young readers to learn about the West Coast of Canada, and its many delights. 

The coastal rainforest is worthy of attention. Its lofty trees, pictured on the opening endpapers inspire awe and only partially tell the story of this wondrous habitat. The 'lush green' is appealing to all who choose to wander there. There is a lot to see. With each turn of the page, Ms. Hodge introduces its wonders in titled double-page spreads that also include an enlightening look at such things as rain, a forest of conifers, a forest home, salmon streams and trees, the cycle of life, and so on ... 

The descriptive paragraphs are conversational in tone and easy to understand for the target audience, giving just enough information to pique their interest, and perhaps to lead to further learning. Readers will meet the many animals who find food and shelter within this ecosystem, and learn just how important the salmon are to the balance of nature there. Karen Reczuch has once graced the pages with spirited watercolor images that offer respect for and wonder at the diversity of life found there. 

Back matter expands on what has been shared in earlier pages, and explains that "almost half of North America's coastal rainforest is found in British Columbia. In addition, the province holds nearly 25 percent of the remaining temperate coastal rainforests in the world." Astonishing!

Protection from logging these rainforest trees is necessary and of concern to many people. Working together is the only sure way to ensure this critical habitat can be saved. A list of websites and books is provided for further study.