This unique anthology features writings on 52 animals that reside in the Gold State, from cats and dogs to the California condor and humpback whale. Beers (California Legacy Project, Santa Clara U.) introduces brief essays, fiction, and poetry by authors including John Muir, John Steinbeck, Barry Lopez, and Ursula LeGuin; Native American tales; and accounts by early explorers. These are complemented by animal profiles, color art illustrations, author sketches, and a timeline of animal-related milestones in the state's history. Elrod is a Santa Clara U. alumnus. Annotation ©2007 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)