Gr 5-8 Laidlaw presents a passionate, well-written, and well-researched argument against the practices of most zoos around the world. He describes the damage done when animals are unnaturally confined and moved to inhospitable climates, and compares the wild and captive lives of polar bears, orcas, elephants, and great apesthe four species most harmed by captivity. The author looks at various types of confinements, from roadside zoos to wild-animal parks to large public zoos, and gives readers several sets of questions and checklists for evaluating the fair treatment of animals in zoos that they visit. In the end, Laidlaw advocates replacing zoos with wildlife sanctuaries and conservation centers, in which the needs of animals are placed before the entertainment and edification of human visitors. This is not a balanced report. Laidlaw clearly hopes to raise the consciousness of a generation. Despite the careful selection of photos that do not show active torture of animals, the book is heartbreaking. Sensitive children will be deeply disturbed as they read of the electric shocks that animals receive if they touch the real trees in "natural" exhibit areas and the fate of overbred lions and tigers. This title is likely to be controversial. It does not excuse the practices of our most hallowed zoos, and it criticizes the standards of the U.S. Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The issues raised in this important and powerful book will resonate with young and old. Ellen Heath, Easton Area Public Library, Easton, PA

Believing that "most zoos should close," Laidlaw makes a strong case for the respectful, compassionate treatment of wild animals. He discusses under what circumstances animals should be kept in captivity, how their lives in zoos differ from their lives in the wild, and how conditions for captive animals could be improved. Besides presenting issues regarding animal welfare, he profiles individuals such as Maggie, an elephant taken from southern Africa to an Alaska zoo. Living alone for many years and housed in an unheated barn each winter, her health deteriorated until she was sent to a California sanctuary. Stories such as these, illustrated with many clear color photos, draw attention to the plight of animals, while the discussion of the types, the purposes, and the future of zoos deals more fundamentally with the issues. The book concludes with suggestions for helping wild animals in captivity, a list of animal welfare organizations, and a glossary.

Accessible text and often heartbreaking photographs of elephants, great apes, and other animals juxtapose their behavior and lifestyle in the wild and in captivity. Laidlaw's own feelings are clear, and his approach offers readers empowerment: what to look for in zoo animal quality of life and ten ways to help (e.g., contact animal protection agencies to report poor conditions). Websites. Glos., ind.

A caged lion pacing back and forth on a worn path and dolphins swimming in unending circles are captive animals exhibiting "stereotypies," or repetitive abnormal behaviors. These disturbing behaviors are a common sight in many zoos. Laidlaw effectively captures the plight faced by captive wild animals, even in major, apparently high-quality zoos. In four riveting chapters he explores first the general issues of life in captivity, then addresses specific, often severe, problems faced by polar bears, elephants, dolphins and Great Apes. He goes on to discuss types of zoos and their particular flaws, then concludes with advice for readers on objective evaluation of the zoos they visit and offers a list of ten ways to help animals in captivity. Ample white space on each page and numerous, well-placed color photographs add to the readability; fact boxes on many pages provide additional details. This eye-opening look at zoo issues will strike a chord with readers and would be a useful addition to most collections. (glossary, index, list of animal-welfare organizations) (Nonfiction. 9 & up)