The Mississippi River (Ecosystems of North America)

Mudd-Ruth, Maria

ISBN 10: 0761409343 ISBN 13: 9780761409342

Publisher: Benchmark Books, 2000

Describes the course of the largest river in North America, the Mississippi and the connections between the plant and animal species that live in and around it.

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From School Library Journal:

Grade 7 Up-These volumes provide well-organized and interesting introductions to three important North American ecosystems. In each case, the author describes a variety of plants and animals and considers their relationships with one another as well as their interactions with the environment. After establishing the range and basic characteristics of the North American rain forest, Behler organizes her investigation of the ecosystem by discussing the layers from upper canopy to forest floor. The human impact, particularly logging, is featured as a change agent. From beaver dams to human levees, the course of The Mississippi River is altered continually. Some of those changes contribute to disastrous floods such as the one in 1993. Ruth describes restoration efforts as well, making it clear that human decisions and actions impact an ecosystem. The Pacific Coast is the least unified, perhaps due to the vast distance and variety of flora and fauna included. Individual chapters devoted to the kelp forest and salmon run hold readers' interest but don't relate closely to one another. Each book provides suggestions for a couple of related class activities. Full-color photos enhance and reinforce the text. Previous knowledge of the topic is not essential, but competent reading skills are. In addition to serving as good sources for reports, the books are engaging enough to recommend for general-interest reading.
Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University, Mankato
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review:

"Well-organized and interesting introductions to three important North American ecosystems....good source for reports..." -- School Library Journal, April 2001

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