Koala: Origins of an Icon    by Stephen Jackson Order:  USA  Can Allen & Unwin, 2011 (2008) Hardcover, Softcover     Reviewed by Bob Walch Here's a fun book that delves into the fascinating history and unique ecology of an animal that is loved by both children and adults. Besides looking at the history and behavior of the koala, the author discusses the ongoing threats to its existence and the controversial debate on how to manage the populations of Australia's favorite marsupial. After coexisting successfully with Aborigines for thousands of years, the koala was considered sloth-like by the early Europeans and valued for little more than its fur. Unfortunately, by the early twentieth century millions of the animals had been hunted, driving the species to the brink of extinction. How they survived the abuse of humans and the indigestible fare (eucalyptus leaves) they loved to munch upon is story of an iconic creature that is unbelievably resilient. Stephen Jackson, a field biologist, zookeeper, and wildlife park curator, has written what may well be the definitive guide on the koala. With 22 black and white photos and over fifty illustrations and line drawings Koala: Origins of an Icon is a valuable book any naturalist or animal lover will want to add to his or her library. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews