For children fascinated by wildlife and curious about protecting endangered species, this book explores the vital work of scientists saving Africa's fastest cat.
A parent might reach for this book when their child, a passionate animal lover, begins asking bigger questions about why some animals are in danger and what people are doing to help. "Chasing Cheetahs" takes readers on a real-life scientific adventure to Namibia, following Dr. Laurie Marker and the Cheetah Conservation Fund. Through stunning photographs and clear, engaging text, it details the hands-on work of saving this magnificent species, from raising orphaned cubs to training special dogs that help farmers and cheetahs coexist. It's an inspiring, hopeful look at conservation in action, perfect for nurturing empathy and showing kids that science and perseverance can solve real-world problems.
The book deals directly with the concept of animal endangerment and the death of animals. It explains that cheetahs are killed by farmers and that cubs are often orphaned. The approach is factual and scientific, not overly sentimental, focusing on the problem in order to present the solution. The resolution is hopeful, highlighting the success of the CCF and empowering readers with knowledge and a sense of agency.
Ideal Reader
An intellectually curious child aged 9 to 12 who adores animals (especially big cats) and is fascinated by science and real-life adventure. This is perfect for a kid who has moved beyond basic animal fact books and is ready for a deeper, more narrative look at conservation, ecology, and the life of a field scientist.
Parent Prep
A parent might want to preview the photos showing cheetahs that have been tranquilized for medical exams or collaring. The text provides clear context that the animals are not being harmed, but the images could be momentarily startling. It would also be helpful to be ready to discuss the complex issue of why farmers and cheetahs come into conflict, a concept the book handles well but may be new to a child. A child sees a documentary about endangered species and is left feeling sad and helpless. They ask their parent, "But what are people *doing* to save them?" or "Is there any good news?" This book is the perfect answer.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will be most drawn to the incredible photographs, the story of the orphaned cubs, and the cool facts about cheetah speed. An older reader (10-12) will better appreciate the scientific process, the ecological complexities, the ethical dilemma of human-wildlife conflict, and the inspiring career of Dr. Marker.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many nonfiction animal books that are simply encyclopedic collections of facts, "Chasing Cheetahs" provides a compelling, boots-on-the-ground narrative. It humanizes the scientific process by focusing on the people doing the work, making a career in conservation feel tangible and exciting. The emphasis on creative, multi-pronged solutions (like the guard dogs) is particularly unique and inspiring.
Read plot summary
This nonfiction book, part of the acclaimed "Scientists in the Field" series, follows author Sy Montgomery as she documents the work of the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) in Namibia. Readers are introduced to the organization's founder, Dr. Laurie Marker, and her team. The book details the multifaceted approach to saving the cheetah, including raising orphaned cubs, reintroducing them to the wild, studying cheetah genetics through scat analysis, and pioneering a program that places Anatolian shepherd dogs with farmers to guard livestock, thus reducing human-wildlife conflict.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The book explains that farmers sometimes kill cheetahs to protect their livestock. Why was Dr. Marker's solution of providing special guarding dogs a more effective approach than just telling the farmers to stop?
2
The scientists at the CCF collect and study cheetah poop (scat) to learn about their health and genetics. What did this part of the book teach you about how scientists can learn important things in surprising ways?
3
We meet several specific cheetahs in the book, like Chewbaaka and the cubs nicknamed 'The Little Einsteins'. Why do you think the author chose to tell the stories of individual animals?
4
Dr. Laurie Marker dedicated her entire life to this cause. What personal qualities do you think a person needs to succeed at such a difficult and long-term job?
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