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Thursday, September 21, 2023

Odd Couples: A Guide to Unlikely Animal Pairs, written by Maria Birmingham and illustrated by Raz Latif. Owlkids, 2023. $21.95 ages 6 and up


"What could this odd couple have in common

Wombat
Waddles through the forest on its short legs. 

Seahorse
Swims through the sea using small fins near its head
to steer. 

They both have pouches!"

Did you know that hummingbirds and giraffes both hum? That meerkats and honeybees are both snugglers? Or that polar bears and Ussurian tube-nosed bats dig dens in the snow? I could not have known that, as I have never heard of a Ussurian tube-nosed bat before I read this book. Have you? 

Each four-page entry in this entertaining and enlightening book is concerned with an unusual pair of animals that do have something in common. The same question is asked each time. This allows kids time to consider what the upcoming answer might be. A very short sentence on the first two pages offers one tidbit of info concerning each animal presented. A turn of the page reveals what they have in common. Accompanying paragraphs for each explain their connection in the natural world. 

The pairings will come as a surprise to readers, and are sure to add to their base of knowledge about eight pairs of mostly familiar animals. The initial fact will appeal to younger readers while the explanatory paragraphs are sure to intrigue older kids. Colorful artwork adds humor and appeal. 

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