The Peaceable Kingdom: A Year in the Life of America's Oldest Zoo

During a year ""observing'' at the Philadelphia Zoo, Sedgwick (Night Vision, Rich Kids) came to understand the unique relationship between zoo personnel and animals. He writes of the deep affection that the keepers and vets have for the animals and the efforts they make to mesh with the personalities of their charges, particularly the babies they must raise when the mothers die or reject their young. That they are emotionally involved with what goes on in the cages is shown here by their sorrow when the oldest gorilla in captivity dies and their joy at the birth of a rhino. Sedgwick presents serious moments, as when workers are attacked by their charges, and humorous ones, too, often involving sex among the animals. The book is a feast for zoo-lovers. Photos not seen by PW. Literary Guild selection. (January 22)