Monday, December 22, 2008

Nonfiction Monday: Science Warriors: The battle against invasive species by Sneed B. Collard III


This is the fascinating story about a modern war - the fight against invasive species. Using several main examples - fire ants, melaleuca trees, zebra mussels, and brown tree snakes, Collard shows how non-native species can devastate the landscape and how scientists are fighting back.

The book discusses past methods, such as pesticides and importing other species, and shows how sometimes the cure was worse than the disease. New methods of controlling and destroying invasive species are given, as well as how scientists study and test the new ideas. There are plenty of photographs, information sidebars, and resources, including how everyday people can help.

Verdict: An excellent addition to the Scientists in the Field series, suitable for older elementary up through middle grades and high school.

ISBN: 978-0618756360; Published October 2008 by Houghton Mifflin; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

This looks like a very intersting book. I know in Oregon we have worked hard to promote native species. My actual post is over at http://maclibrary.edublogs.org.
Thank you for posting today.

Nancy Arruda said...

Hi, my sister and i have left a butterfly award over at our blog for you. Thank you for all the interesting titles and great resources. Enjoy the holiday season!

Charlotte said...

This sounds like my older boy would love it. Thanks for the review!

Ben said...

this book sounds very very interesting. I will look for it!

Ben

Sneed B. Collard III said...

Thanks so much for the great review of my book SCIENCE WARRIORS, which I just stumbled upon. The book was really a work of the heart since I've always felt invasive species have been overlooked as a threat. I appreciate the boost you gave this topic!
Best,
Sneed

Jennifer said...

You're welcome! I found it fascinating! My library patrons seem to be very interested too, it's gone out several times already. (And they LOVE your Reign of the Sea Dragons, we're having to repair it and we've only owned it a couple months!)