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Thursday, June 20, 2024

Find Out About ... Animal Tools, written by Martin Jenkins and illustrated by Jane McGuinness. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2024. $23.99 ages 3 and up

 


"This animal breaks shells on its chest. 
(You might think that would hurt, but 
it doesn't seem to.) 

A sea otter floats on its back in the ocean 
and breaks open sea urchins and clams
by bashing them on a stone resting on its 
stomach.
"

This is the fourth in a series, following Animal Babies, Animal Homes, and Animal Camouflage. Each is just right for younger readers who have a passion for animals and want to know more about them. The format is the same as previous books in the series. Each spread makes an observation about how the particular creature included uses tools to adapt to its environment. 

I would say that about half are new to me. They can do some pretty remarkable things when caring for families, finding food, using tools, and building homes that are quite splendid. Tailorbirds use plant fibers to sew leaves together for their nest. A mugger crocodile preys on waterbirds building nests by balancing sticks on its head that they might find useful in their construction. Burrowing owls use pieces of cow dung to attract beetles that then become a tasty treat. 

The author completes his list with his human readers, telling them they use 'the most tools of all ... ' Quick additional facts are added and a useful index for getting back to a favorite page. 

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