Scientists in the Field: Park Scientists [hc]
Gila Monsters, Geysers, and Grizzly Bears in America's Own Backyard
part of the Scientists in the Field series
Written by Mary Kay Carson [Ohio] with photographs by Tom Uhlman [Ohio]
America's National Parks are protected places and have become living museums for as many as 270 million visitors per year! In addition, researchers are able to perform long term studies of a wide number of subjects from salamanders the size of thumbnails to gigantic geothermal geysers. These parks are natural laboratories for scientists. Did you know that Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming sits on top of an active (and very large) volcano? This volcano is monitored and studied on a daily basis, not only as a means of protection (though it seems a long way off from erupting) but also as a way of understanding how the environment changes and influences what goes on deep underground.
The scientists profiled in Park Scientists also study grizzly bears in Yellowstone, the majestic Sagauro catci in Arizona [Saguaro National Park], and fireflies in Tennessee [Great Smoky Mountains National Park]-- and suggest many ways for the average reader of any age to help out. The emphasis here is twofold: the great science that happens everyday in these important, protected spaces, and the fact that you can visit all of them and participate in the research. 80 pages
"This entry in this popular series focuses on the study of selected plants, animals, and geologic formations in three of our most famous national parks, which are akin to 'natural laboratories and living museums'... Overall, this is a well-written, unique, carefully organized treat for nature lovers and investigators." -School Library Journal, Starred Review (Grades 4-8)
"Citizen scientist volunteers, evolutionary ecologists, park rangers, and geologists are just a few of the types of scientists detailed in the book, representing a wide range of age, experience, and expertise." -Booklist (Grades 4-7)
"... the author-photographer team introduces readers to a grand variety of career scientists: geologist, wildlife biologist, herpetologist, evolutionary ecologist, entomologist and a park biologist coordinating collaborative projects in many fields... A welcome demonstration of the breadth of possibilities in scientific work." -Kirkus Reviews (Ages 10-15)
May 13, 2014
AR Level=7.0; Lexile Level=1040
Watch a book trailer and download a discussion and activity guide
