Kids of all ages are endlessly fascinated by animals.  Animal books are often the first informational text children read.  Here are some of the best so far this year:

Trapped! A Whale’s Rescue by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Wendell Minor. Published by Charlesbridge.

The exciting true story of a humpback whale rescue off the coast of California.  Beautifully illustrated.

The Most Amazing Creature in the Sea by Brenda Z. Guiberson, illustrated by Gennady Spirin.  Published by Henry Holt and Company.

Which ocean animal is the most amazing?  A variety of creatures make compelling arguments about why they deserve the honor.

Hippos Are Huge by Jonathan London, illustrated by Matthew Trueman.  Published by Candlewick.

Hippos ARE huge…and dangerous.  In fact, they’re the most dangerous animal in Africa.  This book is jam packed with fascinating information about them, with illustrations kids will love.

Emu by Claire Saxby, illustrated by Grahame Byrne.  Published by Candlewick.Another fascinating Australian animal book from the author/illustrator team that brought you last year’s Big Red Kangaroo.