The Case of the Vanishing Golden Frogs: A Scientific Mystery

Gr 5-7--This eye-catching, well-written book provides a window into the efforts of a coalition of scientists, wildlife groups, and zoos to decode the mysterious die-off of the Panamanian golden frog, which began in the mid 1990s. Markle follows the work of biologist Karen Lips as she studied and investigated the deaths of so many of these creatures. Further, it records the work of Project Golden Frog to protect those still alive. Fine full-color photos grace every page in this excellent exposition of science at work in field and lab. An author's note is appended, as is a listing of local and global rescue efforts. Pair this gem with Pamela Turner's equally fascinating The Frog Scientist (Houghton, 2009) detailing an investigation into the effects of agricultural chemicals on frog populations, and for a nifty look at froggy facts, try Mark Moffett's colorful Face to Face with Frogs (National Geographic, 2008).--Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

"In 1996, biologist Karen Lips revisited a high mountain forest in Panama, where she had studied Panamanian golden frogs four years earlier. On this trip, though, she found only dead frogs. After a pathologist discovered unusual sacs under their skin, a newspaper article about Lips' research led to communication with other scientists worldwide and the discovery that a fungus was killing off the frogs. Launched in 1999, Project Golden Frog collects healthy animals and keeps them in zoos and conservation centers until the fungus can be controlled and the frogs can be safely returned home. Since 2008, few golden frogs have been found in the wild. Notable for clarity, directness, and simplicity of writing and design alike, this volume, both handsome and fascinating, begins with the hunt for the frogs' killer and ends with the urgent need to create a safe environment for their return to the wild. Excellent photos, microscopic views, and maps illustrate the book. Back matter includes a glossary, recommended reading lists, and an author's note. While few readers will take up Markle's suggestion to 'become the science detective who finally stops this killer, ' many will absorb the notion that scientific research can be intrinsically interesting and vitally important. Pair this book with Turner's The Frog Scientist (2009)." —Booklist