Fiona the Fruit Bat

Curriculum Guide for Teachers and Parents Available (Download/See All)

A sweet, fun, and informative picture book about bat echolocation for kids 3-7. Written by a scientist who works with bats in his everyday life!

It’s time for Fiona the fruit bat to take her very first flight, but she’s scared. How will she fly when she can’t see in the dark? Mama just says, “listen.” But how will listening help her to see? Then she hears a mysterious sound from deep in her cave. To find out what’s making that noise—and to finally fly—Fiona will have to unlock a secret hidden inside herself. 

Written by biologist and bestselling author Dan Riskin, and rooted in the real-life biology of short-tailed fruit bats, this adorable story features:

• The fascinating science behind echolocation, including backmatter pages with information on fruit bats from the author. 
• A comforting message to help kids scared of the dark: Alongside Fiona, they’ll learn there’s nothing to be scared of! 
• A celebration of self-confidence and independence: Shows readers the amazing things they can accomplish all on their own.

Accompanied by delightful illustrations from Rachel Qiuqi, Fiona the Fruit Bat is a touching tale about overcoming the fear of new experiences and finding the courage to listen to your own voice.

Dan Riskin is obsessed with bats, and has spent decades researching the biomechanics of how bats move. Dan’s first book, Mother Nature is Trying to Kill You was a Canadian bestseller. He lives in Toronto with his wife, Shelby, and their three kids. This is his first picture book.

Rachel Qiuqi is an illustrator and author passionate about storytelling for children. She started drawing when she was little and has been drawing with the same naivete to this day. Rachel was born in Shanghai and now lives in Toronto, Ontario.