Bats at the Beach

Narrated by author/illustrator Brian Lies, this iconographic-animated rhyming tale is based on Lies' 2006 picture book about a group of bats enjoying a night at the beach. Gathering up buckets, banjos, blankets, and miscellaneous gear—including “moon tan lotion”—the young and old flying mammals (detailed in vivid acrylic images) play games, use their wings to fly as kites, surf, eat (treats like “salted skeeters”), and engage in other fun activities. The guitar/banjo/harmonica-influenced soundtrack by The Flanks is whimsically appropriate for this engaging story that concludes with the coming of the sun, when it's time to “pack our things up, shake the sand out, and give the noisy gulls a handout.” Featuring a “Sharing My Story” segment in which Lies talks about the importance of imagination, this amusing tale aimed at ages 4-8 is highly recommended. Aud: K, P. (J. Williams-Wood)