The colorful, glossy books in the Mission: Animal Rescue series shine a spotlight on endangered animals and what can be done to help them. The books' magazine-like design includes many excellent color photos of animals in the wild, sidebars, and plenty of double-page features within each chapter. These include Explorer Interview sections, in which scientists, adventurers, vets, and others share their firsthand knowledge, and Rescue Activities sections, which urge children to become actively involved with ecological issues. The occasional Animal Superpowers cartoon strip showcases the species' notable traits and abilities, while another appealing feature profiles individual animals. Lines of type appear on off-white pages that include very pale, narrow bands of color, making segments of text appear to be highlighted for emphasis, though actually the effect appears random. Apart from this minor visual distraction, the books are consistently readable. Polar Bear emphasizes how climate change is drastically reducing the bears' habitat and what young people can do to curtail its effects. These attractive books offer a good deal of information about endangered animals as well as encouragement for kids who want to help.--Phelan, Carolyn Copyright 2015 Booklist

These comprehensive introductions feature facts about the titular animal, anecdotes about individuals, updates from scientists working in the field, and challenges to species survival. Each chapter ends with "rescue activities," ranging from simple energy-saving suggestions to specific ways to help these animals to vague political actions. Excellent photos are eye-catching, but the page design is busy. Reading list, websites. Ind. [Review covers the following titles: Mission: Elephant Rescue and Mission: Polar Bear Rescue.] (c) Copyright 2015. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.