On Parade: The Hidden World of Animals in Entertainment
Laidlaw, a wildlife-protection biologist, recounts the numerous ways animals have been abused in the entertainment industry. After explaining what all animals need (adequate space, freedom of choice, access to family, and things to do), he catalogs specific instances of abuse that have occurred at circuses, on movie and television sets, at exhibitions, in zoos, and at rodeos and other sporting events. Two final chapters offer hope for change�suggestions for alternatives (using computer-generated animals in television and films and providing sanctuaries for animals unable to return to the wild) and a list of ways to help animals used for entertainment. Laidlaw, who also wrote Wild Animals in Captivity (2008), is passionate about changing the views of his readers, even if the specifics he cites are disturbing. However, his clearly argued text; crisp, captioned color photos; and appended list of organizations make this an important source for animal advocates. Give this to activist fans of Peg Kehret�s Saving Lilly (2001) or Kenneth Oppel�s Half Brother (2010). Grades 3-6. --Kay Weisman