The Ultimate Book of African Animals by Beverly Joubert, Dereck Joubert, Suzanne Zimbler
Published by National Geographic Kids on August 17, 2021
ISBN: 142637187X
Pages: 192
Genres: Animals
Format: Chapter Book Nonfiction
Goodreads

National Geographic continues to publish books that not only give the reader facts, but story. This book is published in conjunction with the work of nature photographers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, photographers who have spent their lives documenting animals throughout Africa. Their stunning photographs complement their encounters with myriad animals and each section ends with a narrative about an interaction with a specific animal experienced by this dynamic duo.  The book lets the photographs speak for themselves with big, clear double-page spreads. Bright graphics and tons of facts keep readers turning pages. Organized as if the reader were starting on a safari or “journey” in Swahili, many of the more familiar African mammals are introduced. From there, the book delves deeper into the adaptations, symbiotic relationships, and myths of animals on this giant continent. An unusual section connects contemporary African animals with their prehistoric ancestors, and the penultimate section, which will undoubtedly be a fan-favorite includes animal superlatives, from most social to smelliest to wackiest. And, of course, no NatGeo publication would feel complete without a final section on actions that budding conservationists, and those who have been moved by the creatures and stories in between the covers, can take to help support and preserve the delicate balance of animals with the environment and dangers of human encroachment. The bright, shiny cover with its tantalizing peeks into some of the animals to be explored will attract an audience, but it is the attractive layout, well-written copy, and engaging stories that will ensure high circulation.

Reviewed by Jill O’Connor, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth