Tree Hole Homes: And the Animals That Live in Them by Amy Hevron, Melissa Stewart
Published by Random House on September 1, 2022
ISBN: 0593373308
Genres: Animals, Non-Fiction
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads

A raccoon peeks out invitingly at us from its tree hole home on the cover of this illustrated nonfiction picture book, making us eager to see and learn more.

Stewart has created a nonfiction book that elegantly works on two levels: each page contains simple text describing tree hole homes aligned with brief factual details about their denizens. “(A tree hole home can be) calm and quiet” in larger, colorful type accompanies “A fisher spends most of its life alone . . . “ in smaller, white type on a two-page spread of a fisher in its solitary home. The overall organization of the book juxtaposes the multiple personalities of tree hole homes: “A tree hole home can be big or small” with examples of each. Back matter contains selected sources, including other recommended books and tree hole dweller stats that include scientific names, size, habitat, etc.

Acrylic and charcoal illustrations on wood by Amy Hevron captivate the reader and beautifully enhance the text. This book is recommended for children in grades 2-3, according to the publisher. However, its clear, simple language and engaging illustrations make it a great read-aloud for children ages 4-8. Highly recommended for all collections.

Deanna Contrino, SLMS/MLIS
Young School Librarian, Saco