Koala (Young Zoologist): A First Field Guide to the Cuddly Marsupial from Australia

Young Zoologist

by Chris Daniels, Marianne Lock (Illustrations)

Head down under to study koalas in this nonfiction field guide for kids.

You might know that baby koalas spend time in their mother’s pouches, but there’s so much more to learn about these Australian marsupials! Turn the pages to discover why they spend 15 hours a day asleep, and how scientists use drones to monitor koala populations. Filled with simple science and plenty of animal facts, this book also explains why koalas love to munch eucalyptus leaves, and why they are most certainly not bears! It also looks at the conservation challenges these iconic animals face due to climate change and forest fires.

Genres: Picture Books, Nonfiction

32 pages, Hardcover

Published January 3, 2023

About the author

Professor Chris Daniels is a scientist, science communicator, and the CEO of the organisation Koala Life. He is focused on conserving Australian wildlife and connecting people with nature.

Reviews

[Becky B · Rating 4 out of 5]

An introduction to koalas that covers their growth and development, attributes, habitat, diet, threats, and myths told about them.

This was a thorough introduction to Austarlia's cuddly-looking marsupial. It would be useful for research or curious readers. It was interesting to learn that they can drink if they need to. The book alternates between talking about gum trees and eucalyptus but never comes out and says they are the same thing. Some kids may be confused by this and need clarification.

Notes on content:
Language: None
Sexual content: Mating calls are talked about but not mating details.
Violence: Deaths of koalas and non-fatal burns suffered by koalas in Australia forest fires are mentioned, not described in detail.
Ethnic diversity: n/a
LGBTQ+ content: None
Other: The shape of their poo and the fact that the young need to eat some of their mother's poo to be able to digest eucalyptus is factually stated.

[Bethe · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. This book has the most information of all the ones I’ve read in preparation for upcoming trip to Australia. All sorts of topics covered, limited back matter, really learned a lot about the cute marsupial. Illustrations are good, but a half star taken off for lack of photos.

[Awjtf · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting.