KOALAS: MOVING PORTRAITS OF SERENITY Debuts to Set a New Standard for Animal Photography

San Mateo, CA — Koala Jo Publishing today announced the release of its title, KOALAS: MOVING PORTRAITS OF SERENITY, edited by Joanne Ehrich, with foreword by Deborah Tabart, CEO of the Australian Koala Foundation and an afterword by Jack Hanna, America's favorite television naturalist and host of the "Jack Hanna's Animal Adventures" television series. The oversized hardcover is the first of its kind and promises to be the most beautiful book of koala photographs ever published, with 315 photographic plates by 120 photographers from 24 countries.

The new year brings new hope to saving the koala’s endangered habitat. As Jack Hanna explains in the title, "[W]e are also opening a new chapter in their future on earth. Remember the poignant words of African ecologist Baba Dioum: 'In the end, we will love only what we understand; and we will understand only what we have been taught.'" KOALAS: MOVING PORTRAITS OF SERENITY gives readers a rare glimpse into the koala's secret world, and therefore new understanding and passion for one of the world's most beloved animals. More than engaging the individual reader, a portion of sales proceeds from this book benefit the Australian Koala Foundation to support their efforts.

The book carefully selects related camera sequences to make the animals come alive by suggesting movements, illuminating a world rich with surprises. The photographs are arranged within sections that uncover different aspects of this marsupial. "The Allure of Koalas" sets the scene by exploring the unique attraction that has inspired so many photographers. "Life Cycle" focuses on koalas' gender aspects, complemented by portraits of young koalas. "Characteristics" features its unusual physical traits and observations. "Types" explains little known differences between the three kinds of koalas. "Feeding" details this creature's uncommon eating habits and sleep patterns. "Single Photographs" offers un-themed visual desserts in the form of single images.

The koala is both peaceful and serene and is beguiling as it is charming—leaving people delighted, touched, and fascinated with its endearing presence. The new photography art title reveals little-known facts about koalas, such as:

· The Australian Koala Foundation has delivered specific scientific evidence that koalas might disappear from Australia’s eastern seaboard within fifteen years. The Koala Habitat Atlas has won a prestigious Computerworld Smithsonian Award out of 400 entrants in its category.
· There are three types of koalas. While they belong to the same species, they have different physical traits based on weather factors along their geographic range. This is known as a kline.
· Koalas have two thumbs and are the only non-primates (human or ape) with unique fingerprints.

As a result, KOALAS: MOVING PORTRAITS OF SERENITY gives new insights about this gentle Australian native with breathtaking visuals, earning a place on the bookshelves of animal- and nature-lovers alike.

About the Authors:
Joanne Ehrich lives in San Mateo, California, where she works as a commercial designer and illustrator. She has attended photography trade school and holds a University degree in printmaking. Joanne has created numerous etchings, lithographs, and monotype prints, as well as painting of animals and landscapes.

Deborah Tabart is the CEO of the Australian Koala Foundation. Under her guidance the Australian Koala Foundation has grown into an internationally recognized scientific organization winning a prestigious Computerworld Smithsonian Medal for excellence in mapping koala habitat.

Jack Hanna, popular host of the hit TV series, "Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures" and author of several books, is one of the United States’ most beloved naturalists and adventurers. He actively supports conservation programs worldwide through his many national media appearances, his television series, and position as Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo in Ohio. He is a regular guest on shows including "Good Morning America," "Larry King Live," "The Late Show with David Letterman," "Hollywood Squares," and "The Maury Povich Show."

Order Information
KOALAS: MOVING PORTRAITS OF SERENITY, by Joanne Ehrich; ISBN: 0976469804; hardcover, 260 Pages; 315 photos; May 1, 2006; $45 USD / $60 AUD; Koala Jo Publishing, San Mateo, CA, USA; www.koalajo.com. Australian distribution: Bookwise International; (8) 8268 8222; www.bookwise.com.au. The Australian Koala Foundation (AKF); (07) 3229 7233; www.savethekoala.com. United States trade distribution through Ingram, Baker & Taylor and AtlasBooks; 1-800-BOOKLOG; atlasbooks.com.

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