This nonfiction book introduces the concept of invasive species, looking at the historical and current impacts of intentional and accidental species introduction on ecosystems around the globe. Examples are global and local, including the introduction of European species that became invasive on Vancouver Island and the restriction of the lək̓ʷəŋən People’s traditional tending of native camas plants. “Invasive All-Star” features highlight specific species and locales. As part of the Orca Footprints series, this book is well organized, attractive, and relevant to intermediate students learning about interconnectedness in the environment. There is a detailed contents list in addition to a glossary, index, and resource list. A Teacher’s Guide is available.

48 pp., 8 × 9.5", colour photographs and illustrations • Index

Source: Association of Book Publishers of BC - BC Books for Schools (2021-2022)

Merrie-Ellen Wilcox is a writer and editor in Victoria, British Columbia. She is the author of What's the Buzz?: Keeping Bees in Flight, which is part of the Orca Footprints series and After Life: Ways We Think About Death, which was short-listed for both the TD Canadian Children's Literature Award and the Norma Fleck Award. When several huge Garry oak trees were cut down at the end of her street to make way for a parking lot, she became a passionate defender of the trees and the ecosystem they are parts of. She studied ecological restoration at the University of Victoria and continues to naturescape her garden.

Merrie-Ellen Wilcox's profile page

• Nominated, Young Readers' Choice Book Awards of British Columbia (YRCABC) Red Cedar Book Awards
• Commended, BC Books for BC Schools
• Commended, Evanston Public Library Blueberry Award - Changemakers
• Commended, Junior Library Guild (JLG) Gold Standard Selection

“The balance of hope against the potentially stressful subject leaves readers informed and energized rather than defeated. Handy and lucid, this slim volume makes an important topic digestible.”

Kirkus Reviews

“A high-quality introduction to a topic not often covered in books for middle graders.”

School Library Journal

“A well-written volume on a distinctly important topic for youngsters to be aware of as they grow into their role of guardians of the ecosystems. Highly Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials