There are plenty of books about pet care and some about the evolution of cats and dogs. This very attractive offering covers both of these subjects and so much more. As the subtitle indicates, Keenan provides an overview of pets and their people. Beginning with statistics about pet ownership, the text goes on to describe how animals and humans came together (nicely delineated through the ages) and discusses how this relationship has changed and deepened. There are solid sections on cats and dogs, but Keenan doesn't forget about birds, rodents, lizards, and fish, among others. Eye-catchingly designed, the format uses Photoshop to best advantage, providing interesting graphics, popping borders, and plenty of pictures featuring adorable animals. An extensive source list, including periodicals and Web sites, will lead children to more. A terrific choice for animal lovers.

On busy pages with bright borders, flashy graphics, and a multitude of photographs, this book explores the history of pet ownership. The major focus is on contemporary American pets, but the path to keeping pets is traced from the past through worldwide cultures. The text's narrative expository style is accessible, though a glossary would have been helpful. Bib., ind.

Gr 4-6 A well-organized, entertaining book. Keenan starts with the astonishing fact that there are more pets in the United States than people (and that the number of cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, and other small animals combined does not even add up to the number of pet fish). She then describes how changing religious and cultural attitudes led to the domestication of wild animals and their transformation from possible evening meal to beloved companion. This trip through history is followed by chapters about specific pets, with cats and dogs getting the bulk of the coverage. However, everything from furry to feathered to scaly gets a mention (as do pet rocks, sea monkeys, and Tamagotchis). The book ends with a chapter on "Eternal Pets," covering how animal burial and immortalizing is an ancient tradition. For a volume with such scope, it is disappointing that the ending is so abrupt. The book is well researched though, and includes a bibliography heavy on books, with periodicals, videos, and Web sites given space as well. Animals is written in a witty, casual voice that will attract and hold its intended audience ("some snakes, like the poisonous ones, shouldn't be pets at allduh!"). Color photos and a snappy layout add to the appeal. You will want to welcome Animals in the House into your collection. Kara Schaff Dean, Needham Public Library, MA