Humans & Animals Together: Finally an Encyclopedia
It?s surprising that this four-volume encyclopedia is the first one in English serving the popular field of relationships between humans and other animals. Like the three-volume Encyclopedia of Animal Behavior, also edited by Bekoff, the authors are typically those who have done the research they describe or have been long involved with animals for the topic they cover. (In both sets I recognize many familiar names and concur with Bekoff?s choices.) The articles, however, do not read like research papers from scientific journals; rather, as summaries of research projects (or the work of whole careers) and reviews of some subfields, the style is engaging: a fine balance backed with scientific rigor but served up with language understandable by the lay reader, fascinating conclusions, and, often, practical applications. Most articles include a short list of recommended readings.
The front of each volume indexes the species discussed and a table of contents for the whole set: broad, alphabetically arranged categories, such as Communication and Language, Conservation and Environment, Law, and Enrichment of Animals, each followed by a selection of articles. Readers may be surprised that the articles are more a compilation of examples of research and commentary instead of the broad, more inclusive summary more typical of an encyclopedia; this approach in such a large area of research means that coverage is somewhat spotty. In trade, the reader gets a clearer view of the diversity and real work within the field. Useful for students (especially those considering a career in animal work), the media, and professionals in all animal-related fields, including rescue; conservation; zoos; animal research; animal rights; culture, art, religion, and literature related to animals; and more. Highly recommended for reference collections in collegiate libraries and larger public libraries.
--Rosemary D. Lombard, Chelonian Connection
