Frydenborn, Kay A Dog in the Cave: The Wolves who Made us
Human 246 pgs. HMH, 2017. $16.99 Content: Language: G (0 swears) Mature
Content: G; Violence: G NON-FICTION
This non-fiction book discusses the theories of how wild wolves
evolved into domesticated dogs, when, where, and how. It then introduces the
concept that Dog and Humans co-evolved, each directly influencing the evolution
of the other. There are many examples and a plethora of studies cited. The last
chapters deal with the intelligence of dogs and how they put their skills to
work. Includes interrupting chapters on various concepts like the scientific
method and how MRI give us new insights into the dog brain. Lots of color
photographs and examples of real dogs.
As a dog person, I found this book fascinating. I may be selling
high school students short, but this book was very heavy. Although there were
asides and short extras that delve into some of the terminology and science, overall it features high level writing. The vocabulary, concepts, and even sentence structure
felt geared towards educated adults, or at least college students. I feel that it may be a challenge to many high school readers, though would be a perfect companion to a class on genetics and evolution,
as the topic is relatable and interesting.
HS –OPTIONAL, ADULT -ADVISABLE Reviewer: Stephanie Elementary School
Librarian & Author.
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