Wednesday, February 5, 2025

The Weird and Wonderful World of Bats: Demystifying These Often-Misunderstood Creatures


The Weird and Wonderful World of Bats is a beautifully illustrated and well written monograph on fascinating and often maligned creatures by Dr. Alyson Brokaw. Due out 11th Feb 2025 from Hachette on their Timber Press imprint, it's 312 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats. 

This is an up-to-date collection with information about bats: their anatomy, their niche in the local ecosystems, evolution, range, habitat, diet(s) (hugely varied), their senses and how they interpret and learn, and how *we* learn about *them*. Dr. Brokaw is a behavioral and sensory ecologist and this is her niche/expertise. She writes eloquently and accessibly for average readers.

Although it's not rigorously academic in tone or writing, it is well annotated throughout, and the chapter notes and references are likely worth the price of admission. It will provide many hours of further learning. 

The photography is wonderful throughout, clear and in color, with explanatory captions. Many of the photos throughout are close up/macro shots with incredible detail.

Five stars. This would make an excellent choice for public or (secondary) school library acquisition, home use, or gift giving. Dr. Brokaw's knowledge and passion shine through in the writing. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

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