PEACE, HIPPO! and Other ENDANGERED ANIMALS Too!

[This is an excerpt from the published book--The Preface and pages 1 through 13.]

This story combines facts, a little fantasy, lots of heart, and some humor.

Rufus is a little dog on a big mission. After overhearing a discussion about the endangered species list on TV, Rufus sets out on assignment as a traveling reporter at large to interview endangered animals and to find out how he can help them.

Upon arrival in Africa, Rufus encounters Peace Hippo who becomes his traveling companion. The unlikely pair travel to China to meet a panda and to India to meet a tiger. Then, upon their return to Africa, Rufus learns how the Massai are using their tracking skills to protect lions and how bees are helping elephants behave in Africa. And, finally, his wish to meet a rhino is fulfilled--a rhino who recites Shakespeare, "To be, or not to be. . . ."

Rufus learns the challenges facing these animals today as each one tells their personal story.