cover image Sch-Elephants/Key Port

Sch-Elephants/Key Port

Ronald Orenstein. Random House (NY), $35 (160pp) ISBN 978-0-87156-565-5

The African elephant achieved high recognition as an endangered species in 1989, when international commercial trade in ivory was severely restricted and ivory's monetary value declined tremendously. Whether this species recovers will be determined in the '90s, according to Orenstein, project director for the International Wildlife Coalition. In a cautiously optimistic introduction Leakey, director of the Kenya Wildlife Service, describes recent efforts to save the elephant and urges a continued ivory boycott. Freelance wildlife photographer Beck's strictly documentary images of elephants and other African wildlife accompany essays by contributors from other wildlife organizations about the value of the elephant, conservation and harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. A basic resource for readers of all ages. (Nov.)