LOCAL BOOKSHELF 'The Animal Adventurer's Guide: How to Prowl for an Owl, Make Snail Slime and Catch a Frog Bare-Handed,' by Susie Spikol

"The Animal Adventurer's Guide: How to Prowl for an Owl, Make Snail Slime and Catch a Frog Bare-Handed," written by local author and naturalist Susie Spikol, is the perfect book to give to a young animal lover this summer and will help foster an appreciation for the environment we share with the wildlife all around us. &emsp;&emsp;Spikol, a naturalist from The Harris Center for Conservation in Hancock, New Hampshire, shares activities in "The Animal Adventurer's Guide" for young people to explore the natural environment, either on their own or with an adult. The activities are simple and accessible to all. Whether you live in the country or the city, Spikol writes, "Stop and open your eyes, shift your perception. There are wild animals all around us almost every moment of every day." &emsp;&emsp;"The Animal Adventurer's Guide" is arranged by five animal categories: "Birds: feathers, beaks, talons, and songs," "Mammals: fur, paws, and teeth," "Herps: That's amphibians and reptiles to you!," "Arthropods: insects, spiders, and more," and "Other invertebrates: worms, snails, slugs and stars." The simple activities, along with Becca Hall's charming illustrations, contribute to the book's appeal of adventure while simultaneously encouraging slowing down to appreciate the natural world around us. &emsp;&emsp;For each activity, Spikol lists "Things You'll Need" and "Skills You'll Learn," and one of the wonderful things about this book is the DIY alternatives for most of the supply items. For example, if you need a pair of binoculars to look for birds and other creatures, there are instructions to make your own with simple materials you would likely have around the house. Spikol assures readers, "Even though they won't make the faraway creatures look closer, these simple tube binoculars will help your eyes focus on the animals you see." This activity, along with many more DIY supplies such as homemade frog nets, red lenses for flashlights, and owl callers, are some ways Spikol has made viewing wildlife accessible for all. &emsp;&emsp;"The Animal Adventurer's Guide" will change your perceptions about wildlife before your adventures begin. Observation and patience, among other important skills, are often listed under "Skills You'll Learn." Spikol offers many activities and opportunities to view wildlife in your backyard or even inside your house! Spikol writes, "Scientists are just beginning to pay attention to the human home as habitat." Children from a young age can learn to observe and reflect on our shared ecosystems. Spikol includes resources to share findings with scientists and resources for each animal category. &emsp;&emsp;Through Spikol's activities found in "The Animal Adventurer's Guide," readers will learn to respect wildlife. There are many tips on proper handling and observing when a creature may be stressed and ready to be released. Kindness and respect for wildlife are recurring themes throughout this beautiful book, with activities ranging from building and creating and observing, as well as opportunities to be active. This book will encourage you and the young people in your life to get outside and enjoy nature.