The Peaceable Kingdom: A Year in the Life of America's Oldest Zoo

From Publishers Weekly During a year "observing" at the Philadelphia Zoo, Sedgwick (Night Vision, Rich Kids) came to understand the unique relationship between zoo personnel and animals. He writes of the deep affection that the keepers and vets have for the animals and the efforts they make to mesh with the personalities of their charges, particularly the babies they must raise when the mothers die or reject their young. That they are emotionally involved with what goes on in the cages is shown here by their sorrow when the oldest gorilla in captivity dies and their joy at the birth of a rhino. Sedgwick presents serious moments, as when workers are attacked by their charges, and humorous ones, too, often involving sex among the animals. The book is a feast for zoo-lovers. Photos not seen by PW. Literary Guild selection. Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc. From Library Journal The Philadelphia Zoo, founded in 1874, is the nation's oldest and, in Sedgwick's opinion, most "intimate and charming" zoo. Visiting behind the scenes summer, fall, winter, and spring, Sedgwick lets readers see what gives the zoo its personality: the star animal attractions and committed, colorful people. From zoo director Bill Donaldson to keepers and the animals in their care, Sedgwick offers character portraits and describes the dangers, the emotional upheavals, and the political, social, and scientific milieu in which the zoo operates. Adult and YA animal lovers will enjoy this. Literary Guild selection.Laurie Tynan, Montgomery Cty.