Charm and information share the stage in this easy informational book about hedgehogs. Their protective spines, nocturnal lives, and the raising of baby hoglets are all described, as well as the dangers they face from vehicles and badgers. The creatures’ diet, including wood lice, centipedes, and butterflies, is vital as they gain weight in preparation for their winter hibernation. A short final note states that none of the 17 species of hedgehogs are found in the wild in North America, and that it is illegal to keep them as pets in many places. Mixed-media illustrations showcase infinitely appealing hedgehogs (sporting an anthropomorphic smile) in their natural environment throughout the changing seasons. (Ages 4–8)

Who is that small and prickly creature? Visit a hedgehog mom and her babies as she teaches them to survive on their own.

When the sun has set, Hedgehog’s day has only just begun. She’s out and about, snuffling through layers of leaves and twigs as she searches for bugs and other things to eat. Young animal lovers will enjoy following Hedgehog and her little hoglets through towns and gardens, parks and woodland, as they sniff-sniff-sniff for food. The facts threaded throughout this inviting story augment the charming illustrations and will satisfy the most inquisitive of readers.