Choice Review

This book, edited by Frost (La Trobe Univ., Australia), fills a long-standing gap in the tourism literature by examining the complex relationship between zoos (including aquariums) and tourism. The contribution is very timely, given the current state of the economy and society's growing awareness of environmental issues; the costs and benefits of zoos must be justified. Some of the 19 chapters offer descriptive overviews of zoo programs for conservation or tourism, while several others report results from empirical studies from countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland. Chapter contributors highlight new developments in zoo designs and educational/volunteering programs, and critically examine visitor experiences in zoos and zoo portrayals in the media. The book sets a positive tone by showing that tourism can and should play an active role in transforming zoos into institutions of nature conservation. This, in turn, contributes to meaningful visitor experiences--a key output of sustainable nature-based tourism. This book has certainly built a foundation for future tourism research and practice involving zoos and aquariums. It will serve very well as a primary or supplemental resource in tourism and conservation courses. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Students of all levels and professionals. Y.-F. Leung North Carolina State University