Review: Sticks and Stones, Animal Homes

Did you know that one of the world's smallest owls, the Elf Owl, lives in holes carved out by woodpeckers in trees and cacti? Or that when the Giant Armadillo isn't sleeping in his own burrow, he's happy for other animals to use it?

I learned these fascinating facts and several more from this rather adorable rhyming picture book. The author/illustrator, Tai Snaith, has selected fifteen animals from around the world. Each is featured on its own double-page spread, with an accompanying verse or two to tell us about its home.

The animals chosen cover both land and water, and range from the Bilby to the Clownfish, from the Myanmar River Turtle to the Giant Squirrel. The illustrations are not of your standard 'natural history' variety. Instead, the Muskrat looks elegant in his tuxedo, the Polar Bears are cuddled up tight with their favourite soft toys and books, and the Dung Beetle shows a surprising fondness for a bit of bling! The result is a fun and decidedly unusual look at our natural world.

Title: Sticks and Stones, Animal Homes
Author/Illustrator: Tai Snaith
Publisher: Thames & Hudson, $24.99 RRP
Publication Date: August 2014
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780500500439
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book