This book tells the stories of famous animals that made history in a variety of ways.

We begin with Cher Ami. a brave little homing pigeon. She saved the lives of soldiers who were caught in between the lines, being accidentally fired upon by their own side as well as by the enemy. The soldiers let Cher Amir go with a note for their headquarters, to let them know what was happening. As soon as she took off she was fired upon and although badly wounded took off again and made it home, saving the lives of 194 soldiers. She recovered and the medics made her a wooden leg to replace the one that had been shot. She received a war medal.

of the 50 stories in this book there are many tales of animals that readers may already know. Elsa the lion that featured in George Adamson’s book and film, Born Free. Dolly the sheep who was a clone created by scientists. George, the last giant tortoise of Pinta Island in the Galapagos islands. And Ozy, the octopus who showed us how truly smart octopuses are. He was rescued by fishermen in 2013. He had a badly injured arm so they took him to Island Bay Marine Centre in Wellington, New Zealand, to recuperate. To keep him occupied and mimic his hunting skills in the wild, the staff would hide his food. He was very adept at finding it. They even put a yummy crab in a jar with the lid screwed on and it wasn’t long Ozy problem solved the jar and figured out how to open it.

This is a big big with each famous animal has it’s own wide two-page spread with lovely bright colourful illustrations and occasionally photographs. This makes reading these tales easily digestible in short bursts, allowing readers to come back again and again to find a new story. It’s also makes it a great book to engage with reluctant readers.

Some of the stories can be a little sad, others are funny or inspirational, but all are fascinating.

Wild Lives is a terrific book which celebrates these animals who have touched our lives in so many ways.

Reviewed by Jane Stephens

ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR

Ben Lerwill has been working as a freelance travel writer for over 15 years. His work has appeared in more than 50 national and international publications, from The Sunday Times to National Geographic Traveller. Ben’s passions include the outdoors, music, wildlife, running and reading. He is thrilled that, through children’s books, he can share his enthusiasm about the wider world with young readers. He’s at his happiest when he’s on a long walk and his children haven’t yet pinched all the snacks.

Sarah Walsh grew up in upstate New York. When she was little she was obsessed with animals. So much so that she wanted to be one. Her mom knew this and sewed her an assortment of costumes she could wear all year round. She was also obsessed with drawing and from a very small age knew in her heart she would be an artist someday. If….she worked hard enough and practised. Currently Sarah is an internationally published illustrator with several adult colouring books, children’s board books, activity books, and greeting cards under her belt. She lives with her family in Kansas City. Visit her website.