The Hyena Scientist

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - Little Dolphin School, Scarborough, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: August 12, 2018

Review

Another fantastic collaboration by Sy Montgomery and Nic Bishop; The Hyena Scientist is an excellent addition to the Scientist in the Field Series. Zoologist Kay Holekamp works in Kenya following and researching the daily activities of resident hyenas on a wildlife reserve. The text reads like a friendly story that is packed with information, interaction episodes, and research techniques. Readers feel like they accompany the team in the land cruiser. The front of the book has a two page map that provides orientation for readers and a fast facts page near the end adds to the reading enjoyment. This is 67 page non-fiction done at the ultimate best for intermediate readers and animal lovers of all ages.

From the front cover to the last photo tucked into the index each photograph of the hyenas is impressive. Throughout the book there are amazing shots of the natural environment, other animals who inhabit the area and of the researchers. Librarians who work with children need to add The Hyena Scientist to their collection, this is a must have for intermediate schools and public libraries.

Cream suggestion

Overall Book Score: excellent