Reviews

Journalist Laufer (Mission Rejected: U.S. Soldiers Who Say No to Iraq) presents the inside story of butterflies and the people (scientists, conservationists, collectors, photographers, butterfly farmers) whose lives revolve around these beautiful creatures. The diverse group unites in opposition to the the unsavory poachers and smugglers who traffic in rare species. Jail time deters some, but the temptation is great: Queen Alexandra's Birdwing butterflies fetch $8000 a pair. Laufer chronicles how authorities captured the world's most wanted butterfly smuggler, visits a variety of museums, butterfly farms, and shows, and includes expert opinions on such debates as observing vs. collecting. Verdict: Recommended for scientists and lay readers who enjoyed Susan Orlean's The Orchid Thief.-Annette Aiello, Smithsonian Tropical Research Inst., Panama Copyright 2009 Reed Business Information.