Markle, Sandra. Search for Olinguito, The: Discovering a New Species. Nonfiction. Millbrook, 03/2017. 40pp. PLB $30.65. 978-1-5124-1015-0. OUTSTANDING. GRADES 3-8.
Similar to the author’s previous book, The Great Leopard Rescue (2016), large and clear color photos, maps, page decorations, and other attractive book design elements combine with a clear, descriptive text to produce a book that will appeal to a wide age range. The focus is on a new species that was discovered after years of research, even though there is evidence from 1923 that indicated the olinguito was different from the olingo, two species in the same family as raccoons. The text describes how a naturalist did the extensive investigation, as well as giving information about the species which lives in the South American cloud forest. Many children will pick this up for recreational reading and enjoy the photos; those doing research reports on an animal will be able to read the entire text which is not too long and uses a relatively large typeface. Pair with Lulu Delacre’s Olinguito, de la A a al Z!/ Olinguito, from A to Z! (Children’s Bk. Pr., 2016). Back matter includes an index, glossary, brief list of other books, source notes, and an author’s note.
Penny Peck, San Jose State University, iSchool