'America's Best Zoos' Book Review
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(Photo by intrepidtraveler.com)
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The publisher was nice enough to send me a review copy of the book, written by Allen W. Nyhuis and Jon Wassner. This afternoon I meant to flip through it, and instead spent an hour creating a new must-see list of zoo exhibits, like the Range of the Jaguar at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in Florida, and the Congo Gorilla Forest at the Bronx Zoo.
Since the book is organized by geographic region, I basically mapped out a cross-country zoo visiting wishlist. Set up like a traditional travel guide, each entry includes with logistical information like address, admission fees and hours, and highlights the "don't miss it" exhibits at each location.
The authors, who are zoo lovers and visitors, share interesting background and anecdotes about each zoo. They also include a section just for the kids, which is a nice feature because there is a big difference between a petting zoo and some of the sophisticated, eco-friendly refuges that you find in modern zoos.
The guide is written in clear, engaging prose, and you can tell that both Nyhuis and Wassner really love their subject -- only true afficionados can absorb all of that detail, and then turn around and share it with such a sense of excitement and wonder. I especially appreciated their efforts to showcase the unique aspect of each zoo.
Since I live near the glorious Monterey Bay Aquarium, I was surprised that it didn't make it on to their "greatest" list. Turns out they have an addendum on their website that includes Aquariums. See what I mean? Broad strokes are for amateurs, these guys are all about specifics!
Check out a copy of "America's Best Zoos" before your next vacation. Chances are you'll find a cool zoo near your destination. Remember, most zoos play an important role in the conservation of endangered species, and they get most of their funding from visitors like you and me. Plus, it's way more memorable to see actual lions, tigers and bonobos than another Rainforest Cafe. Just take my word for it.
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