Historical Animals: The Dogs, Cats, Horses, Snakes, Goats, Rats, Dragons, Bears, Elephants, Rabbits, and Other Creatures That Changed the World

Gr 3–5—Chock-full of well-known animals, as well as historical figures associated with different creatures, this title will attract budding history buffs. Arranged chronologically, the book includes Cleopatra and the asp responsible for her death; Beatrix Potter and the pet rabbit upon which she based her stories; and Elsa the lion, who was adopted—and eventually freed—by Joy and George Adamson. Each entry contains a poem that describes the animal or event in question, while "Historical Stats" includes basic information on either the historical personage or the animal. "Did You Know?" and "Tell Me More!" sections feature brief, related factoids (under "Rin Tin Tin," readers will learn about the use of dogs in film and on TV). A full-page, caricaturelike cartoon accompanies each entry. Anthropomorphism abounds: Nero's tiger is shown feasting with the ancient emperor, while Charles Darwin converses with his animal buddies. While adults might groan at the sometimes forced humor and poetry, the intended audience will eat this one up. Historical fluff? Maybe, but if nothing else, this silly yet persuasive effort will coax readers into enjoying history.