A story of a young girl who dreams that howling winds whisk fur and feathers right off her animal friends. Trying to help, she sews each of them a new "coat." But what kind do they need? Who needs fur, and what color? Who needs feathers, and why? Who needs scales, and should they be moist or dry? Includes "For Creative Minds" educational section.

"Big brothers are amazing! Did you know that big brothers are important in animal families, too? Animal big brothers do many of the same things as kid big brothers. They play with their younger siblings, teach them new things, and help with their care. Sometimes animal big brothers even babysit when their parents leave to hunt for food. Are you a big brother or do you have a big brother?"--

Describes the habitat, life cycle, behavior, predators, and unique characteristics of dragonflies.

Little Sea Otter tries everything to avoid going to sleep, including saying good night to all of the creatures above and below the ocean's surface.

Follows an ant through her first summer of helping gather food for her nestmates while trying to avoid danger.

Examines the nature and behavior of many small creatures, from millipedes to earthworms, that live in the dar, cool dampness under stones. Suggests several related activities.

Examines some of the tiny and microscopic creatures who make their homes in trees, such as bees, bark beetles, and fungi. Suggests several related activities.

Mother Red Bat and her new babies fly through the night in search of insects to eat until it is time to find a new home for the winter. Includes brief notes on the Eastern red bat.

Briefly describes some of the creatures that live in a tide pool, including periwinkles, limpets, and sea stars. Suggests several related activities.