abigaillaurawriter's review against another edition

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4.0

I was fascinated by the story of Helen Martini, the first female zoo keeper! I loved the illustrations and enjoyed the way the book told her story. My 8&9 year old boys enjoyed listening too!

ativonmi's review against another edition

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fast-paced

5.0

Dari hanya ngasuh jadi dapet pekerjaan. Mana pekerjaannya pada zaman itu hanya bisa dilakukan laki-laki tapi stigma ini terpatahkan.

abigailbat's review against another edition

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This cute nonfiction picture book about a trailblazing woman zookeeper is a perfect story to share with young animal lovers. For any kid who's dreamed of holding baby tigers or training animals at the zoo, this is a book they will love. It's also a great true story to share during Women's History Month!

backonthealex's review against another edition

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4.0

A wonderful book about a women who wanted children, but ended up taking care of baby animals. Helen Martini wanted to be a mother, she just didn’t expect her babies be to rejected lion and tiger cubs from the Bronx Zoo. Colorfully playful illustrations and back matter

melaniegaum's review against another edition

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4.0

Superb artwork! This book took a look into the interesting life of Helen Martini, who cared for numerous baby animals at the Bronx Zoo. This was during a time when zoos didn't know the best way to care for many animals, so thankfully their practices have vastly improved.

Warning for sad animal separation scenes.

maidmarianlib's review

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5.0

Such a unique biography has text and some speech bubbles. Lovely illustrations

tashrow's review

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4.0

Fred and Helen wanted a baby and planned for one, but never got one. So when Fred, a zookeeper, brought home a tiny lion cub, Helen’s supplies came in very handy. She had bottles to let him slurp, blankets to wrap him warm, supplies to wash him, and a crib for him to sleep in. But when the lion was two months old, he got sent to a zoo in another city. Helen packed up the baby items and spent lonely days with no baby to care for until the three tiger cubs arrived. With feedings every three hours, the cubs grew quickly and soon were causing mischief. Finally, they returned to the zoo at three months old, but this time Helen would not be left behind. Soon Helen found herself an empty storehouse that she turned into a nursery for baby animals, becoming the first woman zookeeper!

Fleming tells a wistful and factual story here, allowing the more remarkable elements to be wondered at by readers. It is amazing that Helen was not only willing to take in these little creatures but also very skilled at it. Many of us can care for human children, but ones with sharp teeth and claws would be daunting. Fleming simply appreciates the dedication, skill and tenacity of this woman, shining a spotlight on someone who was inventing it all as she went along.

Downing’s illustrations are soaked in the time period of the 1940’s by showing cars, fashion and home decor. The book wisely uses panels to show the different moments of caring for the animals, distress at their leaving, and planning to create something new. The panels break up the text for young readers and also give a jaunty comic vibe.

An engaging look at a remarkable woman with a knack for caring for little wild creatures. Appropriate for ages 4-6.
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