The Nocturnals Nighttime Animals: Awesome Features & Surprising Adaptations: Nonfiction Early Reader

Gr 3-6–Readers familiar with Hecht’s “Nocturnals Brigade” from the author’s early reader or middle grade series will be unsurprised by their presence in a nonfiction title looking at the night and animals that reside in it. An introduction that includes Bismarck the sugar glider, Dawn the red fox, and Tobin the pangolin helps to set the stage for anyone looking to learn more about these fascinating creatures. Information covered includes a variety of unique adaptations that allow animals to survive in the dark, whether they are protecting themselves or finding food. Provided examples demonstrate how these animals differ from humans as well as from other animals. Numerous fun facts are shared, and 80 photographs illustrate the information being delivered. Students looking for more information will find two glossaries—one restricted to animals and one for other words—and a list of suggested books, websites, and videos. A more complex vocabulary paired with the levelled reader format will appeal to middle grade readers.