50 Wacky Things Animals Do by Tricia Wagner

“Wacky facts” about 50 animals introduce young readers to the amazing variety of creation. Ages 6-10

50 Wacky Things Animals Do: Weird and Amazing Animal Facts by Tricia Martineau Wagner, illustrated by Carles Ballesteros.  Walter Foster Jr. Books, 2018, 103 pages.

Reading level: Middle Grades, 8-10

Recommended for: ages 6-10

Did you know . . .

• Sperm whales take 10-12-minute naps while resting vertically in the water?
• Spotted skunks try to scare away predators by standing on their forelegs?
• Giraffes can clean their ears with their tongues?
• Naked mole rats can run backward just as quickly as forward?

These are random facts gathered from flipping pages, but most second-through-graders will be happy to share all fifty with you.  This is the third “50 Wacky Things” book, and after reading it kids may be interested to find out the 50 wacky things humans and pets do (I’m curious about the former, myself).  Each animal gets a double-page spread with colorful, humorous illustrations and more facts, such as where it lives, what it eats, and how it attracts a mate.  The minimal text is a plus for reluctant readers.  One clear photo of each animal would increase the educational value, but readers will get some education along with the fun.

Cautions: None

Overall rating: 3.75 (out of 5)

• Worldview/moral value: 3.5
• Artistic value: 4