A Voice for the Everglades: Marjory Stoneman Douglas

Gr 1-4–Readers of this book will find out how the Everglades became a National Park and learn about Marjory Stoneman Douglas, a woman who worked hard to help people understand what a special place the Everglades really is. This striking picture book tells about her life and how she first came to the Everglades and gives detailed information about the plants and animals that are native to the area. The author explains how some people recognized the Everglades as a potential source of money and nearly destroyed some of the species within, as well as how hard Douglas had to work to get people to recognize its beauty, fragility, and uniqueness. The artwork is vividly colored and helps readers to better visualize some of the species that are found only in the Everglades. Author’s notes give more information about the plants and animals of this special place. This is an enjoyable biography and offers a picture of what persistence and tenacity to a cause can bring. Students will enjoy the illustrations of all the animals in addition to the facts about Douglas.