Bei Bei Goes Home: A Panda Story by Cheryl Bardoe
Published by Candlewick Entertainment on December 6, 2021
ISBN: 1536217638
Pages: 48
Genres: Animals
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads

Who does not love a panda bear?  Bardoe’s book takes readers from the day Bei Bei was born at the Smithsonian Zoo in DC till  his arrival in China four years later.  Fantastic up-close photographs show how his mother Mei Ziang, scientists  and zoo staff cared for him.   Scientific, behavioral and dietary information is offered making this far more satisfying than an animal picture book.   Panda Facts are presented in data boxes on most pages, each provides additional research worthy material.  Beyond being a story about a loved animal, this book brings in the issues of animal endangerment, scientific research and international relations.

Although in the format of a picture book for ages 6-9 this nonfiction title will enchant readers of all ages.  Many of us were introduced to Bei Bei via the internet and some of us lucky ones visited during his developing years at the Smithsonian Zoo.  All of the photographs enhance the text and are sure to win many hearts. The use of red and green add a serious attitude and strike a perfect balance with the many black and white photographs.

Bei Bei Goes Home will fly off shelves in both public and school libraries.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME