Book excerpt: As night falls, a tiny, furry creature with enormous eyes emerges from a hole beneath a scrubby desert bush. Always alert to a sudden attack by one of its many predators, the little kangaroo rat searches for food. It munches on tasty grass seeds until it is full, and then scurries back to its safe, underground home with its cheek pouches stuffed with food it will eat later. Packed with information perfectly suited to the abilities and interests of its young audience, this colorful, fact-filled volume gives readers a chance not only to learn, but also to develop their powers of observation and critical thinking. Activities, such as describing the kangaroo rat to a friend and discussing critical thinking questions, give readers a chance to gain insights beyond the facts and figures. From taking a peek inside the kangaroo rat's underground home, to learning how the tiny creature can jump many feet in the air to avoid predators such as coyotes and snakes, this book makes learning about the habits and habitat of these nocturnal desert animals an enjoyable, satisfying experience.