Archive for March 15, 2019

Scampers Thinks Like a Scientist

Written by Mike Allegra
Illustrated by Elizabeth Zechel

This wonderful new book has more layers than the onions growing in the nearby garden. For that reason alone, it would make a great addition to any library. But it’s also a lot of fun to read.

As a field mouse, Scampers faces daily dangers, like predators and finding enough to eat. Seeing a large owl in the garden, he devises experiments to determine just how much of a threat the owl really is. First, he notices the owl doesn’t move. He tries testing the owl’s hearing by shouting and playing loud music. He tries testing the owl’s sensitivity by throwing rocks at it. He tries testing the owl’s eyesight by waving a fake mouse above the weeds. He tries insulting the owl.

The scientific method is at the forefront of the story. The careful way Scampers confronts the owl without getting eaten is nothing short of brilliant. Scampers has to devise a catapult to throw the rocks and a fake mouse to avoid putting himself in danger.

Gorgeous illustrations demonstrate what Scampers is doing and tell a story very well by themselves. The Explore More sections are filled with information about owls and field mice and suggest many ways to learn more.  

  • TScampersitle: Scampers Thinks Like a Scientist
  • Author: Mike Allegra
  • Illustrator: Elizabeth Zechel
  • Publisher: Dawn Publications, 2019
  • Reviewer: Sue Poduska
  • Format: Hardcover, 32 pages
  • Grade Level: 1 to 2
  • Genre: Nature, Problem solving
  • ISBN: 978-1-58469-643-8
  • Extras: Explore More for Kids, Explore More for Teachers and Parents