Thompson's book from the I Can Read series introduces gorillas through a simply written but informative text, illustrated with photographs from the Wildlife Conservation Society. The author describes gorillas within families or groups and relates them to people as animals called primates. Paying particular attention to the needs of the young gorillas, she discusses the animals' physical characteristics, their eating and sleeping habits, and the factors that make them an endangered species in their African habitats. Very effective in illustrating points made in the text, the color photographs offer close-up shots of gorillas.

Early readers will appreciate large, well-spaced typeface over full-page Wildlife Conservation Society photos in these fact-filled, well-organized narratives. Simple page layout aids focus on the subject matter--gorillas in families and at play, and whales as the earth's largest water mammals--each studied and appreciated by scientists, and both "[needing] our help to survive."

Dramatic, high-quality photographs and a concise and thoughtful text combine successfully in this mid-level nonfiction easy reader on a topic that fascinates many children. The text covers gorilla family structure and positional names, similarities with other primates, care of their young, communication, nutrition and habitat. The concluding pages offer an explanation of scientific study of gorillas and a moving plea that gorillas "need our help to survive." This volume will be useful in libraries and classroom settings both as an easy reader and for beginning reports. An author's note provides additional information about the Wildlife Conservation Society and their work with gorillas. (Easy reader. 5-8)

Gr 1-3-Using simple sentences, Thomson explains the basic facts of gorilla life, including their behavior, diet, and habitat. The author devotes a lot of space to the similarities shared by these animals and humans, highlighting how gorillas are part of a family, play with their children, and communicate. The last section describes how scientists study these primates and emphasizes the destruction of their habitat and the need to protect them from harm. While the readable text is presented in large print, it is somewhat dense, often filling the pages. Also, some of the full-color photos are not very well reproduced. For example, a wonderful image of a mother and baby interacting is blurry. This book has a very specific message and will provide newly independent readers with a solid introduction.-Susan Lissim, Dwight School, New York City Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.