Written by Elizabeth Eakes, Illustrated by Bindy James
Weird, Wild, and Rare: An Extraordinary Animals of the United States is an aggregate nonfiction book that shares lots of fun facts about different kinds of animals. Each section focuses on a different animal trait, including “Amazing Adaptions,” “Brilliant Builders,” “Smartest Species,” and “Disgusting Diets.” It breaks down animal facts into bite-size reading pieces with short text boxes that allow for a wider range of readers to enjoy this book. The illustrations are hand drawn and accurate (I would have loved more photographs!) and the infographics are engaging. The animals highlighted range from well known Bald Eagles and Bobcats to relatively obscure ones like the Greater Wax Moth. This book would be a great addition to your animal nonfiction section, though I do wish it came in hardback. The cover is reinforced cardboard and I hopes it holds up ok!
Reviewed by Rachel Whicker, Librarian, Arcadia Elementary
Review shared in September 2026
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades K-5
Weird, Wild, and Rare: Extraordinary Animals of the United States
Written by Elizabeth Eakes, Illustrated by Bindy James
Duopress, an imprint of Sourcebooks
48 pages
Release Date: May 5, 2026
ISBN: 9781464236532
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
