Module 1: Bats at the Library

Book Summary:  These bats are bored with the normal evenings.  They come through an open window and have some fun in the public library.  The fun includes making shape shadows, playing in the water fountain and at the copy machine and having a story time.  This book is showing readers all that they can see in a library visit.

My Impressions: This book had distinct, bright and colorful illustrations that keep the reader engaged. This book took readers through a visit to the library in a creative way through nocturnal animals.  The book shows both younger and older visitors in a way that can relate to many.

Professional Review: An open library window is an invitation for a colony of bats in this sequel to Bats at the Beach (2006). Once inside, older bats look for favorite books, while younger ones explore and play. Storytime settles everyone down and transports them into the tales, filled with bat characters playing new roles. The bat homage to classic hildren’s books includes titles like Goodnight Sun, while images such as Little Red Riding Bat will amuse children who are familiar with the originals. The rhymed narrative serves primarily as the vehicle for the appealing acrylic illustrations that teem with bats so charming they will even win over chiroptophobes.

Library Uses: This book could be used as an introduction to literary discussion groups in the library. The bats found something they were interested in (insect books) and formed into discussion groups.  

Lies, B. (2008). Bats at the Library.  Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company.

Perkins, L.  (2008, October 15).  Book Review. [Review of the book Bats at the Library, by B. Lies].  Booklist 105 (4), 1 p.