Face to Face With Elephants

by Dereck Joubert, Beverly Joubert (Photographer)

You’re in the Land Rover, observing elephants from a safe, respectful distance. It’s a hot, hot day in the African bush, and the windows are down. But what’s this? Suddenly, you’ve got company! An elephant trunk is nosing around in your luggage for some water. Nothing new to Beverly and Dereck Joubert, the wildlife writers and filmmakers who get up close and personal with elephants of all sizes, experience their complex social structure, and witness first-hand their deepest emotions. Through Beverly’s stunning photographs and Dereck’s engaging narration, readers can follow the plight of a trapped baby elephant, discover the compassion of these gentle giants, and learn of the threats they face. The Jouberts take readers face to face with the elephants as they come under attack from lions...and from mankind. Learn how to help protect these animals and prevent shrinking herds being driven into ever smaller parcels of land.

Genres: Nonfiction, Animals

32 pages, Hardcover

First published October 14, 2008

Reviews

[Hannah Dull · Rating 5 out of 5]

Genre: informational
Grade level: 2-5

I loved this book. A lot of thought was put into the construction of this book and I can tell. I love the fact that it started with a story to get readers hooked. It then explained facts about elephants, but in a story like way. It was very inviting and easy to understand. It al continually emphasized the protection of elephants and what readers can do to help. This could be used in so many different ways in a classroom. The photographs were amazing as well.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I learned much about elephants.

[babyhippoface · Rating 5 out of 5]

Professional nature photographer Beverly Joubert and her husband have captured some stunning photographs of elephants in their natural habitat. Their beautiful work is featured here alongside stories of their personal experiences with bulls, matriarchs, babies, and entire herds. Much factual information about elephants’ range, diet, social interaction, reproduction, and conservation issues is included. A section entitled, “How You Can Help” encourages students to get involved in wildlife conservation. There is enough information here for a solid start to elementary student research projects, and the bibliography provides additional resources. This outstanding series from National Geographic deserves a shelf in every upper-elementary library.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

The forest brush exploded as the elephant cow charged at us wildly, head down, like a giant bulldozer. (Adult female weighing up to 7,125 lbs. and being around 9 feet tall). I started the engine, which will usually stop an elephant, but she didn't even hesitate. I was afraid she was going to ram the truck, so I slipped it out of gear. This way, it would roll easily when she hit it, and SHE wouldn't get hurt.

Call me crazy but I wouldn't be worried about the elephant getting hurt!

[Radhika · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good informative book with awesome picture for kids. It's from national Geographic...

[Lindsey Lubker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very factual book about elephants. It is a national geographic book that has very good pictures and information.

[Julesmarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spectacular photos!

[Melanie Swider Wenz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this series! Will definitely read this aloud during nf unit!