School Library Journal
(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Gr 5 Up-Focusing on the wild horses of Assateague Island, Frydenborg effectively combines scientific facts such as coloration and size, as well as the actual definition of a wild animal, with a compelling narrative about several of the scientists who are working to protect and maintain the wild horse population there. A large chunk of the book describes the horse-population management, from its inception to implementation, through the use of a fertility-control medication called PZP, though the depth of detail on this specific topic might occasionally go over the heads of younger readers. However, intriguing facts, the history of the horses, and the general descriptions of life on Assateague Island make for an excellent read. The dedication and knowledge of the scientists come through, and their work is clearly important. As with other titles in this series, the photography is outstanding, and the images of horses going about their daily business in all kinds of conditions put them front and center. A useful FAQ section, glossary of terms, and a thorough bibliography and list of websites encourage further exploration of the topic. A worthy complement to most collections.-Jody Kopple, Shady Hill School, Cambridge, MA (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
From Booklist, Copyright © American Library Association. Used with permission.
*Starred Review* This engaging volume from the Scientists in the Field series looks at the wild horses living in Maryland's Assateague Island National Seashore and introduces two scientists whose work has made a significant difference in their lives. Working with an endocrinologist, wildlife reproductive physiologist Jay Kirkpatrick developed a means of injecting wild mares with contraceptives using darts shot from a distance. Meanwhile, ethologist (zoologist studying animals in a natural environment) Ron Keiper began observing the same horses day and night in every season, keeping detailed records of individual horses, their family groups, and their behaviors. Readers who first heard of Assateague Island through Marguerite Henry's Misty of Chincoteague (1947) may be intrigued by the differences between the management of wild horses at the Maryland and Virginia ends of the island, which are directed by different federal agencies. Excellent color photos of Assateague horses, their habitat, and the scientists who study them appear throughout the book. Sidebars and longer feature articles explore related topics such as the equine contraceptive vaccine PZP and the use of the terms pony and horse. Well researched, clearly written, and quite informative, this handsome book offers close-up views of scientists at work and why their work matters.--Phelan, Carolyn Copyright 2010 Booklist