Description: The true story of the phasmid and its remarkable journey back from extinction.
Brief description: Rohan Cleave is a zookeeper at Melbourne Zoo, where he has been involved in the Lord Howe Island Stick Insect recovery breeding program since 2003. He now manages the program at Melbourne Zoo.
Review Quotes: "Phasmid tells the remarkable story of the rediscovery and rescue of the Lord Howe Island Stick Insect. It was thought that this species was extinct - lost forever - until one moonlit night a few surviving insects were found on a single bush peeking out of a rock crevice. The race was on to save the species, and with the determination and passion of some dedicated people, the Lord Howe Island Stick Insect was brought back from the edge of extinction. Rohan Cleave's inspiring text and Coral Tulloch's evocative illustrations showcase this amazing insect, and give us hope and proof that we can make a difference."
Dr Jane Goodall, DBE, Founder - The Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace, www.janegoodall.org.au
"a beautifully illustrated and well-written picture book... that would be suitable across the primary years from Prep/Foundation through to Year 6. The story itself is sufficient for younger students and there is an abundance of information for older or more curious students. The fact file and glossary are a welcome addition to an already well-rounded text."
Alex Parrington, Teaching Science 62(2), June 2016, p. 55
"a good-news story of how a few devoted people can save a whole endangered species" - 5 stars
Merle Morcom, Good Reading, February 2016, pp. 66
"Phasmid is an interesting and informative text for budding entomologists."
Cath Oehlman, SquiggleBooks, 17/12/15
"A beautifully produced, beautifully illustrated book"
Nick Goldie, Cooma-Monaro Express
"If you are looking for an insect book for a child in the 5-9 age bracket this might be the book for you."
Entomological Society of Queensland News Bulletin, Vol 44(2), April 2016, pp 42