Castle Chaos

Sandy Campbell is a reference librarian in the Science and Technology Library at the University of Alberta.

Castle Chaos is a lesson on wetlands ecology and restoration disguised
as a picture-book fable. Unfortunately, it is more lesson than it is
fable. The book requires adult interpretation for two reasons. First,
Grade 5 reading level is too high for 3- to 8-year-olds, at whom the
book is aimed. Second, the lesson itself has been oversimplified to the
point that it is no longer ecologically sound.

The story concerns a king who beautifies his castle grounds and in the
process disturbs a wetland habitat. After his daughter and animals
convince him of his error, he orders the wetland restored. The
restoration happens very quickly and without any magic or wizardry. The
intended message is that wetlands are valuable and should not be
disturbed, but the message delivered is that if you disturb a wetland
you can just put it back. There is considerable debate among ecological
restorationists as to whether a disturbed habitat can ever be restored
to its natural state. The lesson would have been much more effective if
magic had been required to restore the habitat.

The best part of this book is the artwork. The pictures are whimsical
and fun, and contain enough detail to entertain even prereaders.
Although it is based on a good idea and has its funny moments, Castle
Chaos is not a first-choice purchase.