• Age: 7 to 11
• Grade: 2 to 5
• Reading age: 7 to 11

Creatures sprint, slither, and soar in this STEM-driven dive into the extraordinary, everyday ways animals move!

A squid jets through the ocean like a rocket. A cheetah races after a zig-zagging gazelle. A fishing spider walks on water with its eight hairy legs. All animals must move. Whether on the hunt for something to eat, on the run from being eaten, or in search of a mate or a safe place to live, their lives depend on marvelous motion.

In this fascinating introduction to biomechanics, seasoned non-fiction writer Galadriel Watsondraws on biology, physics, and other sciences to show readers the incredible ways a variety of creatures move to meet their everyday needs—and overcome the physical forces working against them. An accessible, lively style and dynamic design will keep readers engaged, while Samantha Dixon’s energetic illustrations and mechanical diagrams reinforce STEM concepts on each spread.

Galadriel Watson has a Master’s in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia. She has written over 20 books and magazine articles for kids on all subjects, from eels to earthquakes. She lives with her family and pets in a small town in British Columbia.

 

Galadriel Watson's profile page

 

Samantha Dixon is an illustrator who loves getting inspired by nature and using bright colours to depict stories. She is an alumna of Sheridan College and currently lives in the Greater Toronto Area.

Samantha Dixon's profile page

• Short-listed, Animal Behavior Society Children's Book Award
• Joint winner, EUREKA! Honor Award, California Reading Association

“A great choice.”

SMS Nonfiction Book Reviews, 07/02/20

“Information is expertly presented . . . a conclusion sparks curiosity and inquiry . . . Jump, hop, or pounce on this winning, informative title.”

Kirkus Reviews, *starred review, 01/21/20

"Sure to engage students who are just beginning to discover the variety of animals in nature as well as students who are ready to dig deeper into the methods and reasons animals move as they do. . . . Running Wild ends with the directions “Keep wondering . . . keep watching . . . keep learning”. Watson and Dixon have created a book that is sure to inspire all three—wondering, watching, and learning. Well done. Highly Recommended.”

CM Reviews, *starred review, 03/27/20

“Fascinating facts abound . . . an excellent choice for personal reading or prjects. It is augmented by many full-colour, attractive illustrations and diagrams that entertain, clarify and amplify the well-presented information.”

Canadian Children’s Book News, Spring/20

“An inspiring read.”

Redeemed Reader, 08/30/20

“Engaging text and bright illustrations . . . An excellent choice for a book talk.”

School Library Journal, 02/20

“Carefully researched and with a design that is appealing and entertaining, the author presents variety in ways of looking at nonfiction and gleaning pertinent information for all readers.”

Sal’s Fiction Addiction, 06/05/20

“A well written, engaging book that will appeal to engineering, science, and animal lovers alike.”

Sharon the Librarian, 04/06/20

“Wonderful.”

Youth Services Book Review, 01/07/20