Written by Heather Tekavec, Illustrated by Susan Batori
There are so many crazy, interesting animals on our planet! Wanted! Criminals of the Animal Kingdom introduces the reader to several animals that have a peculiar trait or odd behaviors. Each animal is presented as a criminal with a dossier describing their criminal activity, including a rap sheet. The book’s creativity and humor spotlights bizarre animal behavior in an entertaining way. Each animal (criminal) is illustrated as a cute cartoon character that will appeal to children. An actual photo of the animal would have been a nice educational addition. Regardless, this book is an engaging, silly and educational read that kids will love.
Reviewed by Heidi Reed, Media Clerk, Morningside Elementary
Review shared in March 2020
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 1-4
Every media center should own this book!
This is a non-fiction animal book that tells a story for different animals.
For example, the naked mole rat queen: She is an all powerful leader in her colony. She will bully the other females and scare them, because if a female is afraid she can not have babies.
Another: Snapping shrimp. When she wants a meal, all she has to do is snap her larger claw. It pops so loud it stuns her prey. Also, the shrimp will never be in an aquarium because the blast from her claws would crack the glass.
There is a rap sheet for each animal with witness accounts, previous arrests and gang name.
There is a lot of ‘tongue in cheek’ humor and I absolutely loved this book.
Reviewed by Lori Yates, Media Clerk, Fremont Elementary
Review shared in January 2021
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 2-4
Wanted! Criminals of the Animal Kingdom
Written by Heather Tekavec, Illustrated by Susan Batori
Kids Can Press
32 pages
Release Date: March 3, 2020
ISBN: 9781525300240
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
