Hidden in the cloud forest of Ecuador is an adorable, yet elusive relative of the racoon called the Olingo. The author follows Kristofer Helgen and other scientists as they study pelts in museums and search for Olingos in the treetops of the forest and end up discovering a new related species now named the Olinguito. Markle, a science educator, guides the reader through the scientific process in action.
-SS

 

If you’ve ever thought nonfiction books are ugly, this will prove you wrong. With beautiful illustrations on every page, this book feels more like an art gallery than informative literature, though it is also full of information about ocean animals. Entries are organized by animal classification rather than by habitats. 
- EO

This book follows three scientists who are invested in learning about and finding ways to save the manatees.  Each scientist’s journey is depicted in the countries where their field work is being done in Brazil, Senegal, and Florida. These fascinating and endearing creatures are shown in gorgeous photographs taken in each location. Dangers to manatees such as humans, disease, and changes in the environment are discussed in detail as the dedicated advocates study manatees in their habitats around the world.
-SS

 

This book about over thirty endangered species across the world includes unique illustrations in the form of stamps by printmaker, Tom Frost. Not only does the reader learn about a variety of animals threatened with extinction, Jenkins also includes disappearing flora from his work as a conservation biologist. Included are facts about why the animals are in danger and how concerned readers can help save them.
-SS

 

With beautiful and detailed art, this colorful book contains brief descriptions of many different kinds of animals from around the world. It’s organized into five sections: the Chihuahuan Desert of North America, the Amazon Rainforest of South America, the Black Forest of Europe, the Himalayan Mountains of Asia, and the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia. This structure encourages readers to explore based on their interest and groups animals by habitat rather than by its classification.
-EO

This book is perfect for any kid who has a curious mind and likes to learn the answers to questions about reptiles including weird facts and which ones make the best pets.  The bright photographs highlight a variety of these creatures that so many people choose as pets.
-SS

 

This unique book explores weird-looking creatures and their stand-out qualities that make them special. Among the sixty strange animals the reader can learn about are the Naked Mole Rat, the Sarcastic Fringehead, Antarctic Scale Worm, and the Blobfish. Little known facts about these odd members of the animal kingdom will keep a curious preteen entertained for hours and the detailed illustrations are awe-inspiring.

-SS
 

This is a book chock-full of information about birds of prey. Including information boxes and pictures, this book provides a brief, yet well-rounded, picture of each predatory bird it includes. This book is organized by raptor type rather than by size or habitat and designed to help young readers identify birds of prey. Especially attractive to school librarians and teachers, all of Abdo’s Field Guides are aligned to Common Core standards.
-EO

The author combines an extensive overview of sea turtles, their habitats, strengths, and weaknesses with ideas on how to save them and real-life adventure stories.  The stunning photographs and activity ideas will inspire sea turtle enthusiasts to actively engage in the fight to save these endangered creatures. An added bonus is that proceeds from purchasing the book go to National Geographic’s conservation work.
-SS

 

Part of a series about endlings, or the final survivor of a species going extinct, this book explores the final days of Sudan, the last male northern white rhinoceros, and the last northern white rhinoceros to be born in the wild. This book goes on to explore general information about how rhinos live and the sad story of the downfall of the northern white rhinos. This book also contains information about the ongoing efforts of scientists to prevent extinctions like this one.
-EO

Gary Paulsen has written many books over the course of his career, but most of them would never have been written if he hadn’t had so many experiences with animals. In this book, he payed homage to the ones that saved his life, cheered his heart, and captivated his imagination. Paulsen believed that animals knew more than humans could imagine they did, and this is his love letter to all of those animals that touched his life over the years.
-EO

Want to know more about big cats from all over the world? This book is for you! Learn all about the large predators that roam the safaris, the rainforests, and the mountains. Chock full of photographs and fun facts, young readers are sure to come away from this read feeling like they’ve learned a lot.

-EO