Listen Up!

September 1, 2022
Grades 4-7 This introductory book on the auditory senses of animals opens with the evolution of hearing. Life began in water, where fish started to adapt their method of staying upright into a way of detecting sound waves. Later, certain land animals, such as elephants, began using their feet to sense vibrations traveling through earth and bats learned to fly in darkness, guided by echolocation. Different animals developed forms of hearing that suited their needs and helped ensure their survival. A biologist and a science writer, Aitken mentions research suggesting that plants also appear to hear sounds. The book includes information on noise pollution in the ocean, in cities, and even on farms, and notes the detrimental effects of noise on the health of people and animals. Well-captioned color photos illustrate the main text, while sidebars introduce related points. Written in first person, the text engages readers by bringing together a series of interesting facts and ideas related to animal hearing. Aitken encourages readers to tune into the soundscape of nature. An intriguing addition to the Orca Footprints series.

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