Bat Citizens: Defending the Ninjas of the Night

Chock-full of bat facts and photographs, this nonfiction book for young readers makes the case for bat conservation, including challenges that face the species and possible solutions....The backmatter includes a nice section on practical ways to help...Look to this eye-catching book to be convinced of the wonders of the bat and how they are deserving of protection.

Gr 3-7--This extensive introduction to the world of bats covers a wide range of topics from where they live to what they eat to how they communicate. Laidlaw debunks myths such as bats are blind and discusses threats to their survival, such as the devastating disease, white nose syndrome, and human disruption of hibernating sites. He explains the vital role bats play in pollination and insect control. Particularly interesting are 10 profiles of "bat citizens" from around the world who are helping conservations efforts through activities such as constructing bat boxes and helping with research studies. Many are teenagers, but some began work while in elementary school. Most pages include a large text box with small photos and fact boxes along the edges. A center gate fold opens to reveal a larger-than-life hoary bat with various anatomical features labeled and explained. A list of suggestions for ways readers can help bats plus a long list of organization websites should encourage bat enthusiasts to get involved. VERDICT Even readers who don't actively engage in citizen science projects should gain a new appreciation of bats through this engaging overview. A good choice for most school and public library collections.--Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University Library, Mankato

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Author and animal welfare activist Laidlaw shows some love for the undervalued bat, while celebrating the work of other bat-enthusiasts to educate the public about the animals. Laidlaw explores bat anatomy, diet, habitats, species (more than 1,300 identified), and threats facing bats today. Writing in first-person for some sections, Laidlaw describes witnessing a "tornado-like spiral of Mexican free-tailed bats" emerge from Bracken Cave outside San Antonio, Tex.; concerned citizens helped protect the cave from development that would have negatively impacted the bats. Throughout the book, Laidlaw profiles young "bat citizens," including four- and five-year-olds Eleanor and Samson Davis, whose hot chocolate stand raised more than $100 for the Organization for Bat Conservation. In addition to the striking photographs, a gatefold features a life-size painting of a hoary bat in flight. Many readers will be inspired by Laidlaw's implication that anyone can become an animal advocate with enough curiosity and compassion. Ages 8-12. (May)

Copyright 2018 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

While those already entranced by these singular creatures of the night will be inspired anew, the succinct, well-researched text and interactive format--including a center gatefold of a life-size hoary bat--is sure to recruit a fresh legion of bat lovers, too. Bat citizens unite.