The Great Monkey Rescue: Saving the Golden Lion Tamarins
by Sandra Markle
Millbrook Press (October 1, 2015)
Audience: Ages 9-12
Nonfiction * Endangered Animals * Habitat Conservation
IndieBound * WorldCat

Description of the Book:
Golden lion tamarins are found only in Brazilian forests. These small, remarkable monkeys once had plenty of space to roam and claim family territories. But years of deforestation caused their numbers to shrink. They were in serious danger of becoming extinct.

To help, scientists studied the animals in zoo settings. But they faced several mysteries. Why weren't golden lion tamarins reproducing in zoos? If scientists reintroduced zoo-raised tamarins to the wild, would those monkeys survive? And how could scientists give tamarins enough forest area for the population to grow? Find out how scientists and concerned citizens worked together to give golden lion tamarins a hopeful future.

My thoughts on this book:
From my first glance at this book cover at ALA's annual conference, I knew I wanted to read this story. I knew little about Golden Lion Tamarins (GLTs) but how could you resist that face? Of course, it didn't hurt that the book was authored by Sandra Markle. Author of numerous picture books and nonfiction books for children, Markle has a way of drawing in readers and getting them to connect emotionally to her story.

In The Great Monkey Rescue, Markle explores the plight of the Golden Lion Tamarins from Brazil. Deforestation of Brazil's Atlantic Forest resulted in lowering the population of these native primates to near extinction. Through greater understanding the the family structures and habitat needs and the support of many, GLTs captive population began to thrive. Enough so, that in the mid-1970's re-introduction programs began. However, it wasn't until the 1990's that a combination of factors led to successful re-introduction.

Through the use of engaging text, vivid photographs, and the focus on one young female, readers learn of the issues facing Golden Lion Tamarins and are led on a journey to survival. Markle's back matter includes an author's note, timeline, glossary, index, and "find out more" section and provides readers with more information to explore.

The Great Monkey Rescue: Saving the Golden Lion Tamarins by Sandra Markle would make an excellent addition to a classroom or school library. Mark your calendars for October 1st when this book becomes available at your local indie bookstore or public library. Check out the videos below for more about the Golden Lion Tamarins.

Smithsonian Channel: Baby Monkey Twins at Play:

Palm Beach Zoo: Meet the Golden Lion Tamarin Family -

Additional Videos from Arkive Golden Lion Tamarin, click here.