Some of the world’s most vulnerable species are exhibited for youngreaders in the Animals at Risk series. Each title introduces the endangered animal, how many species exist and where they live, howendangered they are, what’s threatening their survival, and straightforward ways to help protect them. The simply worded text is wellsupported by attractive animal photos, range maps, and helpful infographics. Giant Anteaters highlights the need for large home ranges andclear migratory paths in the face of habitat loss and road construction so that these magnificently snouted creatures can continue to controlant and termite populations. Manatees note that the three species ofgentle giants are key to maintaining healthy rivers and coastal wetlands,but the destruction of seagrass for new construction on coasts preventsthem from grazing. Monarch Butterflies reveals that these importantpollinators in the Americas need their habitats protected, as many havebeen killed on their great migratory route through logging and farming. In Red Pandas, readers learn that these cuddly cuties, native tosouthern Asia, are endangered from climate change, poaching, and thedestruction of bamboo forests. All volumes emphasize the importanceof slowing climate change to protect these animals and the good theydo for their respective environments. The series’ bright design andhigh-interest subjects are sure to engage new readers. 

Snow leopards are big cats living in the snowy mountains of Central Asia. This informational text gives a few facts about snow leopards as well as information as to why they are at risk. The reader learns that human impact is the main reason that snow leopards are considered vulnerable. The book also describes things that are currently being done to help snow leopard populations.

The Animals At Risk series focuses on animals that are in danger of being extinct and what can be done to help them. The series includes many text features that aid the reader in their learning including maps showing the animals range, diagrams, bold words to highlight important vocabulary and a glossary. This series is a part of the Blast Off Reader Level 2 series and is 24 pages. The text is 2-3 sentences per page with color photographs.

This Level 2 reader explores the conservation status of four endangered animals: the axolotl, rhinoceros, snow leopard, and Tasmanian devil. A brief introduction to the animals’ habitat is followed by the threats to their survival and actions to repopulate the species. The series features bright colors and pho- tographs along with two-to-three short sentences per page. Finally, each book contains a glossary, index, and sources for further information. VERDICT A truly attractive series on endangered animals for beginning readers.