A fascinating collection of 50 stories about very special animals who have displayed extraordinary qualities and helped humans. The stories are grouped into five categories – Rescue & Protect, Adventure & Explore, Change & Solve, Discover & Pioneer and Inspire & Influence.
There is a huge range of animals – including Greyfriars Bobby, Keiko the orca whale in “Free Willy”, Elsa the Lioness, Dolly the sheep, Laika the space dog and Seabiscuit the champion racehorse. I loved Ning Nong the elephant that saved the life of a little girl in the 2004 tsunami. There is much to admire about Cher Ami a homing pigeon who overcame bullet injuries and delivered a crucial message in the First World War. In the Second World War Wojtek was a bear who became a soldier. In recent times Streetcat Bob befriended and changed the life of Jams Bowen.
The spreads are attractive and engaging. Text is balanced by artwork, and photographs. There is a world map showing where each animal was born.
This excellent book help the reader to appreciate how animals are prepared to show loyalty and bravery to help humans. The stories are ideal for sharing in class and for assemblies.
There is also a related teaching resource pack available on the Nosy Crow website.
Brenda Marshall
Paperback published 2025
Wild Lives: 50 Extraordinary Animals that Made History
by Ben Lerwill
Illustrated by Sarah Walsh
Nosy Crow
ISBN 9781788007351 £12.99
Part of the Inspiring Lives series
