"Little Bat" by Tania Cox, illustrated by Andrew McLean

Little Bat lives in a rainforest in northeastern Australia and clings to her mother in fear knowing that she is expected to start flying soon.  Other animal friends come by to give advice to the little red flying fox.  These include a paradise kingfisher, a Boyd's forest dragon, a green ringtail possum, a king parrot, a lesser sooty owl, a Ulysses butterfly, a yellow-breasted sunbird, a spotted-tailed quoll, and a green python.  Colorful, detailed drawings on a dark blue background showcase these forest dwellers.  This is a lovely book about encouraging a friend.  30 pages.

"Stellaluna" by Janell Cannon

I first read this children's book when I worked as a teacher's aide many years ago, and it has become one of my favorites.  Stellaluna is a fruit bat who is separated from her mother when they are attacked by an owl.  She lands in the nest of Mama Bird and her three babies where she is taught to live and eat like they do.  This means flying during the day, no more hanging upside down, and learning to live on insects, none of which seems right to Stellaluna.  Will she ever be reunited with Mother Bat and others of her species?

The beautifully colored and detailed drawings of the bats and birds are the biggest draw of this book.  There are even small drawings at the top of every other page showing Mother Bat's search for her baby.  The story is compelling and explains the differences between birds and bats in ways that children can understand.  "Bat Notes" at the end explain more about "the only mammals capable of powered flight."  I highly recommend this book to all children as well as any adults who are fond of bats.  46 pages.

"Little Bat" by Tania Cox, Illustrated by Andrew McLean

I like bats and have several children's books on the subject.  Little Bat is unsure about taking her first flight, but will encouragement from her friends in the Australian rainforest where she and her mother live help her?  Big, colorful illustrations of unusual species will appeal to most children and adults.  30 pages.