Koalas: Moving Portraits of Serenity [Illustré] [Anglais] [Relié]

Koalas, along with their kin the kangaroos, are icons for the continent of Australia. These cuddly, teddy bear-like marsupials, while instantly recognizable, are little known outside of their natural habitat. Editor Ehrich hopes to rectify this deficiency in her new collection of koala photographs taken by more than 100 photographers. Koalas are so inherently photogenic that many of the photos have a postcard or poster quality to them, but closer examination reveals details of the animals' daily lives. A grouping on the life cycle includes a photo of a tiny joey ensconced in its mother's pouch, along with numerous images of mothers cuddling their offspring. A view of koala characteristics focuses on their physical attributes, including the two-thumbed hand and grasping foot, large hairy ears, and bare nose. Feeding is documented in many amusing photos of the animals munching on eucalyptus, their only food. Although the illustrations sell the book, there are nice short essays that tie each section together. This is the best collection of koala images available and will find a ready audience. Nancy Bent
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"This book should be in every home where there are children and in every heart that is human ... "

"... tremendous job in making this peaceful marsupial shine to help us understand the importance of conserving its dwindling habitat."

Koalas are among the most beloved and popular animals in the world. The oversized hardcover Koalas: Moving Portraits of Serenity will be the most beautiful book of koala photographs ever published. The book features texts by editor Joanne Ehrich, a foreword by Deborah Tabart, Executive Director of the Australian Koala Foundation, and an afterword by Jack Hanna – America’s favorite television naturalist and host of the "Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures" television series. This book is an international project with 315 photographs by 120 photographers from 24 countries. The book features carefully selected camera sequences that make the animals come alive by suggesting movements, revealing a world rich with surprises. The photographs are arranged within sections that uncover different aspects of this marsupial. Koalas: Moving Portraits of Serenity conveys insights about this phenomenal Australian native with resplendent visuals, deserving a place on the bookshelves of koala and nature lovers alike.

Joanne Ehrich lives in San Mateo, California, where she works as a commercial designer and illustrator. She has attended photography trade school and holds a University degree in printmaking. Joanne has created numerous etchings, lithographs, and monotype prints, as well as painting of animals and landscapes.

Deborah Tabart is the Executive Director of the Australian Koala Foundation. Under her guidance the Australian Koala Foundation has grown into an internationally recognized scientific organization winning a prestigious Computerworld Smithsonian Medal for excellence in mapping koala habitat.

Jack Hanna, popular host of the hit TV series, "Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures" and author of several books, is one of the United States’ most beloved naturalists and adventurers. He actively supports conservation programs worldwide through his many national media appearances, his television series, and position as Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo in Ohio. He is a regular guest on shows including "Good Morning America," "Larry King Live," "The Late Show with David Letterman," "Hollywood Squares," and "The Maury Povich Show."