Friday, March 17, 2017

The Search for Olinguito : Discovering a New Species by Sandra Markle - ADVISABLE


Markle, Sandra The Search for Olinguito : Discovering a New Species, Non-Fiction 40 pgs. Millbrook Press (Lerner Publishing Group), 2017. $30.65. Content: G. 

In 2002, scientist Kristofer Helgen noticed that a type of raccoon he was studying seemed to be different enough from the others that it might be a new species.  So, 3 years of studying samples in museums led to DNA testing which confirmed that this was different enough. Now, to find if there are any left in the wild! It took 6 more years in the field of watching, filming, testing samples and having peer review of their findings to prove that Olinguitos are indeed their own species. 11 years from initial idea to recognition, Helgen was finally able to present the new species in 2013.

This children’s book, describing the process of a scientist as he discovers a new animal is full of captioned photographs, source notes, a glossary and books and website sources to find out more.  Lerner Publishing has included a valuable website with free educational resources that can easily be used in the classroom.  An easy read for 3rd grade and above, but enough information and resources to be easily utilized by a middle school student as well.  

EL, MS - ADVISABLE  Lisa Librarian

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