ALL ABOUT ANIMALS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 27345, 22 March 1950, Page 2

ALL ABOUT ANIMALS

Handsome New Study The Story of Animal Life. By Maurice Burton. Vol. I: The Framework of Animal Life; Invertebrates. Vol. II: Vertebrates. Published by Elsevier (Distributors Cleaver-Hume Press, London). £3 3s the set. These two volumes are the product of a new attempt to survey the whole field of animal life in a scientific manner and to present the material in a style which will generally appeal without sacrificing anything to mere popularity. It is not a “ popular ” production which emphasises curiosities or aims to capture a superficial interest. Indeed, it falls into a class almost by itself but there is no doubt that there was room for a book like this and. equally, there is no doubt but that the endeavour is a most successful one. These two volumes are admirably suited for the students library, particularly for students in the post-primary grades. They are also a worthwhile investment for the family man. The editor. Dr Burton, deputy keeper of the Department of Zoology in the British Museum of Natural History, has been assisted in his task by zoologists in various countries, including, It is interesting to note. David Fleay, of the Healesville Sanctuary for Australian Fauna (Victoria) and E. H. Turbott of the Auckland Museum. This wide range of authorities has ensured that the material is not merely digested from existing publications but is the product for first-hand research and of intimate knowledge. It is typical, for instance, that it is noted that the notornis has been rediscovered Scope is allowed for these associate writers in special articles. The reader can readily look up an outline of the essential facts about the various animals and these factual descriptions are frequently illuminated by relating the common characteristics of different animals and by studies of animal psychology. For example, the well-known authority, F. D. Ommaney. contributes an article on the formation of coral reefs. Mr Turbott's contribution describes the kiwi. Another distinguishing feature of this set. and one which is immediately apparent, is the excellence of the illustrations. Here is no gallery of conventional pictures of museum specimens. Attention has been given to securing photographic studies of the birds ana animals in life and in natural' surroundings. The claim of the publishers that “ the result is almost certainly the best collection that has ever been assembled in a work of this kind" is one to which credence can readily be given. Such volumes as these are destined to have much use. They have therefore been clearly printed on good quality paper and most solidly bound. Altogether this is a production which reflects credit not only on those responsible for it but also on the standard of British book production. D. G. B.