★“An important book for helping kids see past the stereotypes of terrifying grizzly bears and join the call for conservation.”― School Library Journal , starred review Grizzlies are one of North America’s most iconic wildlife species. They once roamed across half the continent, but today the grizzly population has declined at an alarming rate and it is incredibly difficult to rebuild those numbers, especially in places with a lot of people. Yet grizzlies are key members of their ecological communities and a powerful symbol of wilderness. Filled with facts and richly illustrated with photos, Grizzly Bears: Guardians of the Wilderness explores the biology of grizzlies and the vital ecological role these bears play, and it asks readers to consider what it takes to share the land with them. Learn from conservationists, scientists, Indigenous Peoples and young people who are working to ensure that grizzlies will be with us forever. The epub edition of this title is fully accessible. Gr 4-8-Backhouse's latest foray into wildlife literature offers a close-up look at grizzly bears, as well as insight into their importance to the ecosystem and the imminent dangers they face from humans. Chapters offer basic facts about the bears; a history of their interactions with humans in North America (and changing perceptions of them); the bears' annual rhythms; conservation efforts; and how readers themselves can help keep grizzlies safe. Captioned full-color photos on nearly every spread support the text and engage readers, and sidebars offer more details and fast facts. Back matter includes a glossary, index, and additional resources. The conversational tone offers kid-friendly explanations for various scientific terms. Each chapter also contains short stories of individuals and their relationship with the bears, such as an Indigenous teen's study of bear hair and a scientist who studies bear poop. Perhaps the most important aspect of the book is its emphasis on conservation and protection of grizzlies. The book makes a strong case for how our own human habits harm grizzly bears far more than they harm us, leading to a major loss of grizzlies in North America. Backhouse also challenges young readers to adapt their own behaviors to protect grizzlies. VERDICT An important book for helping kids see past the stereotypes of terrifying grizzly bears and join the call for conservation.-Lindsay Loupα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. ★“Offers kid-friendly explanations...An important book for helping kids see past the stereotypes of terrifying grizzly bears and join the call for conservation.” ― School Library Journal, starred review “A high level of expertise, up-to-date research, thorough topic treatment and appealing presentation…Readers will come to appreciate a magnificent creature's struggles to maintain its place on this planet that we share. Highly Recommended.” ― CM: Canadian Review of Materials “This phenomenal book is a must for anyone with even the slightest interest in bears. Even someone who isn't particularly interested in learning more about grizzlies likely won’t be able to resist being drawn in. Highly Recommended.” ― School Library Connection “The writing is clear and engaging and benefits from the author’s specific experience working with bears…Organized well for research…An excellent addition to any school or public library collection.” ― Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD) Protecting the Legendary Bear. Frances Backhouse is an award-winning environmental journalist and author who found her way to writing through science. As a kid, she loved exploring nature. She climbed trees, went for long walks with her dog in the river valley near her home, raised monarch butterflies from caterpillars and made plaster casts of animal tracks. Adulthood brought new adventures as she earned a bachelor of ccience degree in zoology and went on to work as a park naturalist and a biologist. Frances has written four books in the Orca Wild series and six books for adults. She lives in Victoria, British Columbia, and loves spending time outdoors wherever she is.