"Primate School is the latest work by Jennifer Keats Curtis, a well-known children's nature book author, and her book does not disappoint. Having a background in primatology, I was eager to read the book, and it exceeded my expectations...The reading level of the book is slightly higher than the intended audience grade level, so younger readers may need assistance with the text, something that the author encourages. I believe students at this age and K-3 grade level will find the photographs captivating while also learning from the text. After all, what young child doesn't love monkeys and apes?"
Primate School is more than a fascinating picture book about monkeys, lemurs, orangutans, chimpanzees, baboons, gorillas, gibbons, tamarins, and stamangs. It s specifically designed to be an informative, fun story as well as a springboard for discussion and activity. Readers will find interesting facts on thirty-two large pages that are filled with engaging color photos that show ways humans are teaching new skills to their primary cousins in a zoo school.
-Suzanne Javid, for Children's Literature
What makes this book fun is not only the different types of primates, but also the informational data at the back of the book for older readers regarding primates' lives and activities. Any child will enjoy looking at the colorful pictures, although several of them show the animals inside a barred environment for human protection.
"In Primate School, readers get a realistic view of different primate species. The pages are filled with engaging photos and interesting material. Children will learn what a primate is and their characteristics. Primate School also gives a glimpse of how zoos train and handle primates."
"This is a fun and fascinating look at zoo school learning that will wow young students. No, not all training that takes place in a zoo setting involves circus-like tricks, but rather something quite unexpected. Young readers will get a glimpse of primates as they hold out their arms for a blood pressure check to those working their magic on a touch screen. The pages are filled with full color photographs and fascinating facts that will draw in even the most reluctant readers. In the back of the book there are four pages of activities as well as free complementary activities on the publisher's website."
"This is an interesting book packed with pictures of a plethora of primates from various parts of the World. Included in the pictures which will garner the interest of children is the story that includes bits and pieces of interesting facts about these intelligent animals."
"I found this book to be really rather amazing! I loved the photos and discovering how these primates are learning new skills such as using an iPad. A remarkable book and highly recommend for ages 4-8."
Crisp and interesting photographs accompany equally fascinating text about educational opportunities for primates at sanctuaries and zoos. Different primates are shown enjoying these activities, and the author is careful to note that training and education is, for the most part, voluntary. Some activities provide entertainment. Others educate. Still others train the primates to do things that make it easier to care for them. It's all quite interesting. I only wish there were even more information. The topic is intriguing.