A Houghton Mifflin Children’s Scientists in the Field title:

The Bat Scientists

Mary Kay Carson with photographs by Tom Uhlman

The men and women who study bats aren’t scared of the dark or bothered by a bit of smelly guano. And they certainly aren’t afraid of bats. These bat crusaders are fascinated by them, with good reason. Bats are the only furred animals—mammals—that can fly. Many communicate and hunt using ultrasonic echolocation, gather in enormous colonies of millions, and live for more than 40 years.

   Unfortunately bats are also in trouble. Many bat species are threatened with extinction. American bats are also facing a terrifying and mysterious new disease called white-nose syndrome. Follow the bat scientists into the trenches—and caves—as they fight to save their beloved and amazing bats.

A Junior Library Guild selection

Reviews

Booklist* (October 15, 2010)

(starred) With clear, informal prose and beautiful close-up color photos on every double-page spread, this exciting title in the Scientists in the Field series follows a team of dedicated bat specialists. Along the way, Carson dispels popular myths about the often maligned animals with solid information: bats are not blind, very few drink blood, and they are important pest controllers. The color photographs, including many full-page images, are spellbinding, from the image of a Texas cave filled with millions of adult bats to a close-up view of a single, walnut-sized baby. Many facts will be new to most readers—bats are the only mammals that fly; more than one-fifth of all the roughly 5,000 mammal species are bats—and young people will be easily drawn in by Carson’s lucid, fascinating explanations of concepts and her vivid descriptions of scientists at work. The conservation message is urgent: bats’ habitats are quickly disappearing because of overhunting, tourism, mining, and many other human-related causes. Whether describing the physics of echolocation or the present crisis of white-nose syndrome, Carson encourages readers to rethink stereotypes about creatures once scorned as flying vermin and shows how intricately their survival is tied to our own. Extensive back matter, including a glossary and a bibliography of books and Web sites, closes this standout resource. — Hazel Rochman

School Library Journal (November 1, 2010)

Gr 5-8–This series entry takes readers along with Merlin Tuttle and a crew of BCI (Bat Conservation International) into bat caves and bridges, trees and houses to study these agile flitterers. Carson’s readable, informative text dispels the ugly myths that have haunted these nocturnal hunter/gatherers, detailing bats’ usefulness to humankind from gobbling up mosquitoes to scarfing down corn earworm moths to pollinating a multitude of plants throughout the rain forest. Replete with superb close-ups of big ears, hairless pups, furrowed faces, and fragile wings, the text describes the damage done by humans to bat environments and the ravages of white-nose syndrome, and tells of efforts to restore and protect hibernating sites and maternity colonies. Readers not ready for this richness of detail should enjoy Laurence Pringle’s Handsome Bats (Boyds Mills, 2000), while those wanting more can plunge into Sandra Markle’s elegant Inside and Outside Bats (S & S/Atheneum, 1997). Readers in the “more, more, more” contingent can investigate Karen Taschek’s more challenging Hanging with Bats (Univ. of Mexico Press, 2008). A strong scientific look at a unique and often unloved mammal and the scientists who happily investigate them.–Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY

Kirkus Reviews (September, 2010)

The “ick” factor is high in this latest title in the Scientists in the Field series describing patient field work, rescue and conservation efforts to save bats. The survival of these valuable but poorly understood nocturnal mammals is threatened by habitat loss, human fears and a mysterious disease. An opening trip with a gas-masked bat expert wading through mounds of droppings in an ammonia-filled cave is followed by visits to a rehabilitator with bats in her barn, a caver who not only researches bats but builds gates to keep them safe in their breeding and winter habitats, a scientist who finds bats under bridges and supervises building bat shelters and finally a night mist-net expedition with a Ph.D. candidate. Though the striking cover shows zoo-dwelling vampire bats from Central or South America, the focus of the text is bat research in this country. Woven into particular researchers’ stories is an enormous amount of information about bat biology and behavior. Uhlman’s photographs are clearly identified in context and the backmatter supports further research. (Learn more, glossary, index) (Nonfiction. 12 & up)

Horn Book (November/December, 2010)

“The single biggest threat to bats is human ignorance about them,” scientist Merlin Tuttle explains to Carson and to readers. “Most people are very happyto protect bats if only they understand them.” This impassioned book is rich with fascinating information and photographs and will make readers think about bats in a new way. With deft description and careful explanation, Carson profiles Tuttle and his fellow bat-lovers of Bat Conservation Inter- national (BCI) as they research these misunderstood creatures. The clear text debunks “Batty Myths”—bats are not flying mice nor do they suck blood—as it highlights BCI’s conservation efforts. Uhlman’s large photos are not for the squeamish (one picture shows a coachwhip snake with a bat clamped in its mouth), but many of his shots (such as a swarm of silhouetted Mexican free-tailed bats flying out of Bracken Bat Cave near San Antonio, Texas) have a stately beauty. The last chapter focuses on the struggle to understand and con- tain white-nose syndrome, a devastating and fast-spreading disease that is killing hibernating bats. Back matter includes a glossary and index as well as additional resources where budding scientists can learn more about protecting these flying mammals that “play an important role in so many ecosystems.” (Chelsey G. H. Philpot)

INFODAD (September 9, 2010)

One of the most interesting of Houghton Mifflin’s many fascinating “Scientists in the Field” books is Mary Kay Carson’s The Bat Scientists, simply because bats themselves are so amazing and so widely misunderstood. This book is, almost of necessity, largely the story of Merlin Tuttle and the organization he founded, Bat Conservation International. There is no other group quite like this one. Both Tuttle and BCI work tirelessly to get the word out about the importance of bats, to educate people about these wonderfully adapted and extremely beneficial flying mammals, and to argue strenuously for bat protection – which is more crucial than ever now because of a fungal disease called White Nose Syndrome, which is threatening the survival of many bat colonies and perhaps even some entire species. The Bat Scientists discusses how bats live, explains their anatomy (they have the same arm bones as humans, but not in the same proportions), shows some of their many habitats (hollow trees, caves, the areas under bridges), and features beautiful and extremely informative photos by Tom Uhlman. Many bats look grotesque by human standards – one reason people have long feared and hated them – but the extreme closeups in this book will go a long way toward generating empathy for them: a rescued baby red bat drinks milk, its huge eyes wide as it looks at the scientist feeding it; a bat pup licks its mother’s face; bats of multiple species snuggle together in the tight quarters they prefer, getting along better than many squeezed-together humans do; and there are photos showing bats flying (individually and in huge clouds), scientists working to make caves safer for bats and to provide artificial homes (such as bat houses) to attract them, and much more. This is a highly informative book about a unique animal – the world’s only flying mammal – and it is also a call for helping to protect creatures whose unique ecological niche is quite beneficial to humans: some bats eat their own weight in insects every night. (+++) rating

Librarian Abby Johnson (July 12, 2010)

I don't know if you know this about me, but I love bats. They are so cool! They eat insects. They're the only mammals that truly fly. They hang upside down. I just think bats are really cool. In fact, I can't even count the number of times I said, "Oh, cool!" as I was reading this book. Not only is The Bat Scientists an entry in the Scientists in the Field series (which I love), it's about my favorite animal. Of course it's going to be a winner with me. Many people think of bats as creepy or diseased, but actually the 1,100 species of bats in the world do a lot of good. Some eat tons of pest insects. Some pollinate flowers. And, okay, some bats drink blood, but bats are much more likely to avoid humans than to mess with them. And bats, like so many animals, are in trouble. Some species are really endangered because of loss of habitat and a new disease starting to spread in North America. The bat scientists are working to save bats by studying their habits, saving their homes, and educating people about these fantastic creatures. The beautiful photos, ranging from stunning wide shots of millions of bats to unique close-ups of individuals, will win you over to my side. And the book's got all the elements you'd expect from this series - an index, glossary, and sources. This book will be great for young bat fanatics and it may inspire others to learn more about these awesome animals!

A Patchwork of Books (August 30, 2010)

Alright, so I have to be honest...I hate bats. I know, I know, bats aren't out to hurt humans or even interact with us, but seriously...they terrify me. If you had one get stuck in your hair when you were seven years old, innocently eating breakfast at the kitchen table, you would be scared of them too! That being said, they are still fascinating creatures and one of those animals that kids seem to be really interested in learning about. So, I'm taking one for the team today! The latest "Scientists in the Field," book is The Bat Scientists by Mary Kay Carson and since I love this series as much as I do, I had to take a deep breath and dive into the world of bats. Am I still scared of them? Totally. But, I learned a whole lot of new information and am more in love with this series than ever. Every school library and public library need to have them on their shelves. So, The Bat Scientists focuses on Dr. Merlin Tuttle and his team at Bat Conservation International as they fight to save bats from extinction and educate the public (like me!) on facts about these misunderstood animals. As with most titles in this series, we get a lot of background on the mission of the organization, what they do on a regular basis, and the reasons they're doing it. We also get fact boxes, maps, definitions, and tons of awesome photographs (this time by Tom Uhlman). I am always so impressed with these books, as they present such a huge amount of information in a totally readable manner. You can sit down and read the book and not only learn about the animals that are being focused on, but also on different organizations around the world set on conservation and preservation of the world's species. Definitely a must-have. Overall rating: 5 out of 5.

Layers of Thought  (September 13, 2010)

A great book with incredible pictures. It is perfect for the Halloween and fall season. Synopsis: A preteen and children’s book based upon a group of people whose aim is to educate children (and adults too) about our fellow planetary inhabitants - bats.  It is written by scientists with a love of this special but ugly animal. Bats are an umbrella species – if they are protected then it naturally extends to the protection of other species, helping them to thrive and survive. Sadly many species of bats in the US and around the world are in danger of extinction due to habitat loss, incorrect beliefs and myths, as well as a mysterious disease called white nose syndrome which is addressed in the book. This book helps to teach by giving children and young adults science- based information about the importance of  bats to local ecosystems. It also includes some disgusting and buggy scatological information which children love. My Thoughts:  I love love love bats. They are so cute – ugly cute.  Most with faces only a mother could love. They are also an indicator species. Their health is an indication of our planet’s health, our warning – the figurative “canary in the coal mine”.  You can’t help asking the question, if bats are dying, what’s next? This book is simple and intriguing, with some incredible pictures, and a bunch of enlightening facts that everyone should know. Its a great fall read for the classroom and a trick or treat gift instead of candy or sweets. And besides, did I mention that I love bats - 4 stars. ~ Shellie

Beth’s Book Review Blog (August 29, 2010)

Dr. Merlin Tuttle and his colleagues at Bat Conservation International aren't scared of bats. These bat crusaders are fascinated by them, with good reason. Bats fly the night skies in nearly every part of the world, but they are the least studied of all mammals. As the major predator of night-flying insects, bats eat many pests. Unfortunately bats are facing many problems, including a terrifying new disease. White-nose Syndrome is infecting and killing millions of hibernating bats in North America. But Dr. Tuttle, with the help of his fellow bat scientists are in the trenches—and caves—on the front line of the fight to save their beloved bats. Some of the tidbits I learned from the book were:

1. •The world's smallest bat is the Bumblebee Bat that weighs less than a penny and has a wingspan of just 6.5 inches.
   

2. •Bats are mammals.
   

3. •Bats have bellybuttons! 
   

This one gets four stars.  It was a great, genuinely educational children's book.  I actually learned quite a few things from the book!  The stunningly beautiful photographs by Tim Uhlman really made the book shine and made me realize that bats are actually kind of cute!

Roundtable Reviews For Kids (August 1, 2010)

Award-winning author Mary Kay Carson's latest offering truly mesmerized me. The narrative is perfect for younger children, and the photographs from Tom Uhlman are even better. There's good reason the author's won the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics 2009 Children's Literature Award.

   The Bat Scientists provides ample information into the world of bats. With so many bats succumbing to White-Nose Syndrome, it's important to make sure children do not fear these creatures. The author does a great job sharing facts about bats, as well as detailing why they are so important.

   Bats from around the world have their place in this book.  Children learn about the bats they see around their own home and other species they might not have heard of. The book corrects many myths you hear about bats and delves into a bat's skeletal structure, habits and behaviors. It's complex, yet geared for children. Despite that, I think the book is fascinating and will appeal to Mom and Dad just as much as the youngster for whom it is intended.

   If you're leery of bats, I really suggest reading this informative guide into everything about bats. I have bats that live under the shutters on my front deck. They definitely earn their keep keeping moths and mosquitoes from pestering us as we sit outside and enjoy cool breezes on sultry summer nights. I only hope they keep returning and don't disappear completely. (Reviewed by Tracy Farnsworth)

The Joys of Reading (November 10, 2010)

Another great addition to The Scientists in the Field series and this time all about bats.  Now I know most people don't like bats, but me personally I am completely fascinated by bats they are just so cool.  They are mammals and they can fly.  They hang upside down, they eat mosquitoes (very helpful in the summer) and they are just awesome.  But bats are in trouble, here enters Dr. Tuttle and his team of scientists trying to help the bats as best they can and discover how to protect them.

   Just like others in the series this is a great way to introduce students to the wide variety of fields of science that are out there.  I so wish I had a series of books as nice as these when I was going up.  This has an excellent glossary of words you may not know, index, and plenty of pictures and displays to help the reader interpret the information.

   The photographs are amazing they really get you up close and personal with the bats.  The text is easy to read and perfect for a 3rd through 5th grader.  This is a definite must for you library collection, plus looking ahead to the 2012 summer reading theme is going to be nocturnal, this will be a perfect addition.  Highly Recommended.

Bookends: A Booklist Blog (November 8, 2010)

The Bat Scientists by Mary Kay Carson (Houghton 2010) chronicles some really dedicated people studying a highly misunderstood species. Pull on your mental boots and walk with Merlin Tuttle into the Bracken Bat Cave near San Antonio. Millions of bats (270 tons of bats!) hang overhead, bat poop rains down constantly piling up on a floor seething with millions of guano-eating beetles and a he wears a respirator to protect his lungs from the searing ammonia. Tuttle has been fascinated by bats since his teens even doing important research as a high schooler. Now a conservationist as well, Tuttle works to educate the public on the incredible ecological importance of bats and trying to protect bats as their habit disappears. One small brown bat can eat 1,000 mosquito-sized insects in a single hour making them critically important for pest control. Tom Uhlman’s photographs are spectacular. Pictures of a tiny rescued bat being fed milk and one licking its mother’s face help to dispel the misapprehension many people have of bats as flying vermin. An outstanding list of additional resources and a list of terms rounds out this exceptional book. Readers will gain a tremendous respect for these amazing scientists, this misunderstood creature and a clear understanding of the life of a working scientist. (Lynn Rutan)

Wrapped in Foil (December 13, 2010)

Mary Kay Carson’s new book The Bat Scientists with photographs by her husband, Tom Uhlman, is a stand out in the wonderful Scientists in the Field series. Even if you are only mildly interested in bats or find bats off putting, this is a fascinating book.

Carson follows bat scientist Merlin Tuttle into a cave in Texas to find out what studying bats in like. Immediately we learn that this field is not for the squeamish. Wading through bat guano teeming with insects, while breathing through a respirator in a smelly cave at temperatures of 100° F isn’t for everyone. Thank goodness that Dr. Tuttle and his colleagues (and Mary Carson) are willing to do it, because it turns out that bats are pretty important in the scheme of things. By learning more about them, hopefully we can protect these fragile and misunderstood little creatures before it is too late. Carson discusses some of the disturbing recent threats to bats at the end of the book.

Our family became intrigued in bats years ago through two great fiction picture books: Stellaluna by Janell Cannon and wonderful The Bat in the Boot by Annie Cannon. This great nonfiction middle grade book is keeping that curiosity alive and well, as we learn the current bat facts and research techniques. As my son says,”The Bat Scientists is a really good book!”

This book was nominated for a Cybils in middle grade nonfiction.

Watch the book trailer!

Field Notes with Thane Maynard from 91.7 WVXU Podcast

Thane Maynard welcomes local author Mary Kay Carson who talks about her new book, The Bat Scientists.