Collard III, Sneed B. Defending Nature: How the U.S. Military Protects Threatened and Endangered Species. Millbrook, 09/2024. 56pp. Nonfiction. PLB $34.65. 978-1-7284-9374-9. GRADES 4–8. OUTSTANDING.
The U.S. military has more than 400 bases in the United States, and part of their responsibility is to protect the many threatened and endangered species of plants and animals on that land. Military bases contain more endangered species than the nation’s parks do, from the red-cockaded woodpecker in Florida to the Palos Verdes blue butterfly in California. Most of the examples highlighted are at the Elgin Air Force Base in Florida. Collard’s customary clear and detailed text is strong, and is accompanied by color photos and useful sidebars on every spread. The book ends with a glossary, source notes, list of related books, articles, websites, and an index. This is an interesting book on an unusual topic, and will serve both casual readers and report writers.
Penny Peck—San José State University, iSchool