Why Do Rabbits Hop?
And Other Questions about Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, and Gerbils
By: Joan Holub
Many people love rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, and guinea pigs. These small animals make great pets. And there's so much to know about all of them! Which rabbits have the longest ears? How are hamsters and gerbils different? Are guinea pigs pigs? Find out all the answers to these questions-and more-in this lively, kid-friendly introduction to these fun, furry creatures. Filled with colorful illustrations and photographs, this is just right for any child curious about these very appealing small pets.
AI Overview
Book Overview: "Why Do Rabbits Hop?" by Joan Holub
Title: "Why Do Rabbits Hop? And Other Questions About Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, and Gerbils" Author: Joan Holub Illustrator: Anna DiVito Publisher: Penguin Young Readers, Level 3 Publication Date: January 27, 2003 ISBN: 9780698163294
Key Themes
- Animal Behavior: The book explores various behaviors of rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and gerbils, including their unique characteristics and interactions.
- Educational Content: It provides factual information about these small animals, making it an educational resource for young readers.
- Curiosity and Inquiry: The book encourages children to ask questions and seek answers about the natural world.
Plot Summary
The book is structured as a series of questions and answers about rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and gerbils. It covers a range of topics such as:
- Rabbit Hopping: Explains why rabbits can jump 10 feet in one hop.
- Guinea Pig Greetings: Discusses how guinea pigs bump noses to say hello.
- Gerbil Pups: Introduces the fact that baby gerbils are called pups.
- Animal Interactions: Provides insights into the social behaviors of these small animals.
The book is designed for early readers, using simple language and engaging illustrations to make the content accessible and enjoyable.
Critical Reception
- Kirkus Reviews: Describes the book as "a fun, fact-filled introduction to these popular pets" and notes that it "will delight young readers with its lively, colorful illustrations and engaging text".
- Bookshare: Lists the book as part of the Penguin Young Readers series, suitable for third-grade level readers, and highlights its educational value.
- Goodreads: Provides a brief summary and notes the book's popularity among young readers, emphasizing its engaging and informative content.
Overall, "Why Do Rabbits Hop?" is a well-received educational book that encourages curiosity and learning about small animals, making it a great choice for early readers.