PARROTS OVER PUERTO RICO by Susan L. Roth and Cindy Trumbore

Bibliography

Roth, Susal L. and Cindy Trumbore. 2013. Parrots Over Puerto Rico. New York: Lee and Low Books, Inc. ISBN 1620140047

Summary

In the treetops of Puerto Rico, a beautiful flock of green and blue parrots, the Puerto Rican parrots, have lived for thousands of years. Their numbers were plentiful until habitat destruction and growth of human population, along with natural competitors, predators and disaster, almost brought them to extinction. Roth and Trumbore weave the history of Puerto Rico in with the history of these birds and their fight to not be lost.

Critical Analysis

In this engaging story about the history of the Puerto Rican parrots, and people, Roth and Trumbore weave a story that overviews the lives of these birds and people with descriptive facts and important details. The parrots’ refrain “Iguaca, Iguaca” calls out to us as each new part of their history, and potential destruction, are added.

The beautifully detailed collages that Roth used to illustrate the home of the Puerto Rican parrots and people are stunning. As the bird population dwindles, so does their representation in the illustrations. The book is also presented vertically, instead of the traditional horizontal page turning to bring in the sense of the height that these magnificent creatures live at.

In the afterword, we are given more detailed information and photographs about the parrots natural habitats, aviary homes, and the scientists who are dedicated to protecting this beautiful species and helping them thrive once again.

Review Excerpts

2013 Publishers Weekly Best Children’s Books award winner

2014 ALA Notable Books for Children award winner

2014 Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award winner

2014 Orbis Pictus Award nominee

School Library Journal – “This title offers an engaging and hopeful look at environmental restoration.” - Kathy Piehl

Booklist – “A triumphant reminder of the inescapable connection between people's actions and the animals in the wild.” – Erin, Anderson

Connections

This would be a good introduction to talking about what it means when animals are considered endangered or extinct.

This could lead into a research project about other endangered species and what actions are being done to preserve those populations.

This would be a good discussion starter on animals, their habitats, and what happens when humans don’t consider the natural world when tearing down and taking land for themselves.