Mary Batten: 4 books

Despite all our love songs and romantic fantasies, reproduction is the name of the game in biology. All forms of life are genetically programmed to reproduce. Nothing is off limits so long as it produces babies. Animals—plants, too—“do it” in wild, bizarre ways. With both a vagina and a penis,...

This book offers readers a bug’s-eye view into the strange and fascinating world of carnivorous plants. From the “jaws” of the Venus flytrap to the pretty sundew plant whose delicate tentacles entrap its prey, the unique anatomy and behaviors of meat-eating plants are detailed with clear, engaging text and art.

Slither along with one of nature's deadliest hunters—and learn all about what makes rattlesnakes so dangerous! Rattler has not eaten in a week. After hiding from the hot sun all day, he starts hunting. Rattler uses his venom to paralyze his prey and his tail to scare away predators. He even...

Young readers will love this fun, fact-filled introduction to one of the most fascinating sea creatures! Baby orca lives in the cold waters of the Pacific Ocean with her family. They click and whistle to communicate. Baby orca spends her days playing with friends, napping, and swimming. As she gets older, she learns to hunt. Eventually, she has her own baby orca to take care of!