The secret life of the skunk

K-Gr 4--Pringle introduces readers to five young skunks as they cuddle close in the secret burrow their mother made deep in the ground. The striped skunks are nurtured by their mother for several weeks. At about five weeks old, the kits are ready to venture out of their burrow to learn to hunt for food under maternal supervision. The author depicts the fascinating journey of growth and discovery from early spring through summer as the skunks learn how to survive and prepare for a life without their mother. Packed with interesting facts and beautiful digital illustrations, this nonfiction book will entice early readers and student researchers alike. Back matter includes more information about skunks as well as a glossary and a list of additional resources. VERDICT Young readers will enjoy the lyrical text and warm illustrations in this fourth book in the author's "Secret Life" series.--Annette Herbert, F. E. Smith Elementary School, Cortland, NY

Maligned and malodorousbut oh, so interesting.Skunks may not be everyone's favorites, but they are fascinating. They live cozily in dark burrows deep underground. Kits, born while the weather is still cold, are fed and well protected by their mothers; as summer approaches, the youngsters emerge outside with "Mom" under cover of darkness and begin to forage independently. With fall's arrival, they prepare for winter dormancy. As for those noxious aromas that make for skunks' off-putting reputation? Before relying on their ultimate weapon, skunks actually give predators and other mischief-makers a variety of advance warnings. Readers may be surprised to learn that the unwelcome sprays of smelly musk are given off only when other warnings go unheeded; afterward, unfortunate would-be attackers have learned not to target this prey again. The smoothly written, gentle narrative explores the life of a family from birth in early spring to the kits' independence in late fall. Unfamiliar vocabulary is italicized; definitions appear in a glossary. The endearing digital illustrations, embellished in aqua crayon, have the chalky appearance of oil pastels, which highlights the skunks' furriness. The primarily dark backgrounds, softened with some bright touches, effectively cast the skunks' black-and-white coats into sharp relief, the deep shades also reinforcing the striped creatures' nocturnal existence.Sweetreally: Animal lovers will find much to appreciate here, and report writers are well served. (author's note, glossary, bibliography) (Informational picture book. 6-9) Copyright Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.