Talk, Talk, Squawk! by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Neal Layton

I use Nicola Davies' Animal Science series a lot in book clubs and as recommendations for school projects. They're good choices being small and not daunting to reluctant readers, with funny cartoons and small chunks of text.

This older title, from 2011, is still relevant and will intrigue readers who are interested in animal communication.

Davies compares animal communication to human communication; in "uniforms" and markings, sounds, smells and more. Each type of communication is illustrated with humorous cartoons and simple text. Readers will learn how bright colors signal poison, how fish stay in schools be reading each other's colors, and how birds sing to defend territories, attract mates, and maintain communications. There's also information about sea horses, dolphins, deer, and many, many more.

An index and glossary make up the back matter. While this isn't as complete and scientific an introduction to the subject as, for example, Castaldo's Beastly Brains, it's a great intro for beginners and casual readers. Kids who are studying nonfiction author styles will enjoy learning interesting tidbits and facts and those who like animal trivia will revel in this funny collection of animal facts.

Verdict: A great beginning for learning about animal communication, helping kids narrow down a research topic, or just enjoy a funny, informative book. Worth purchasing even though it's a few years old as the information is still fresh and relevant.

ISBN: 9780763650889; Published 2011 by Candlewick; Borrowed from another library in my consortium