M. Brock Fenton is a Fitzhenry and Whiteside author
Grade 3-5-Though no shortage of books on the subject exists, this is an excellent introduction to the intriguing world of bats. Readers learn that these are the only mammals that can fly; that they are shy and gentle; and that there is an amazing variety of species. Clear text informs in a lively style that they are valuable critters, too: they eat insect pests, spread seeds (aiding reforestation), pollinate flowers for food trees, and provide fertilizer. The endangered status of some species and the role of ignorance and superstition in their extermination by humans are also explored. Children will come away with an image of affectionate creatures who exhibit individual personalities, but are warned that they should not be kept for pets. The real scoop on vampire bats is given, including a riveting photo of one lapping (not sucking) blood from a chicken's claw. Overall, the full-color photos are of good quality and are intriguingly framed, although not all are captioned. In some of the captions, the type of bat is identified but what it is doing is not explained. Similar information is offered in Sylvia Johnson's Bats (Lerner, 1985); for libraries that need another title about these misunderstood mammals, this is a great addition.
Valerie Lennox, Jacksonville Public Library, FL
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.