Book Description

BAT CAVE: A FABLE OF EPIDEMIC PROPORTIONS—book #2 of The Critter Chronicles series—starts where FISH TANK: A FABLE FOR OUR TIMES left off. The allegory considers issues we are all too aware of today, including epidemic disease and immigration. BAT CAVE tackles these concerns and more, this time through the lens of a bald eagle, her friend a seagull, and multiple colonies of bats living in a cave, some bats local, some migrating through. BAT CAVE is a fun, science-savvy, thought-provoking story appropriate for all ages. Like all books in The Critter Chronicle series, BAT CAVE is a small book based on a large premise—that story has the power to change the world. ------- BAT CAVE is an intriguing journey that explores our important relationships with the natural world and our own human nature. — Dr. Winifred Frick, Chief Scientist, Bat Conservation International BAT CAVE is flat out wonderful! A mind-expanding, modern-day fable for all ages that makes you think, wonder, and care. —Tom Vandel, author of THE BROKEN WORLD, 2022 High Plains Book Awards finalist Scott Bischke’s BAT CAVE: A FABLE OF EPIDEMIC PROPORTIONS is a fast-flying read that tells the tale of two feathered friends’ journey to Mexico for the winter. Volant the eagle and Gabby the seagull end up wintering on an island that is home to two large bat colonies. As they befriend the bats and learn about their lifestyles, Volant and Gabby become embroiled in the mystery of the humans who come to the island and take away some of their bat friends. An engaging story seen from a bird’s—and bat’s—eye view, BAT CAVE also informs the reader about the devastating disease, White-nose Syndrome, which has killed millions of bats. — Eva Silverfine, author of EPHEMERAL WINGS Scott Bischke tackles one of the most vexing problems for bat ecologists. He presents a captivating allegory on the challenges of studying wild populations through an exploration of White-nose Syndrome. —Dr. Marty Zaluski, Montana State Veterinarian BAT CAVE reinvigorates the time-honored tradition of teaching through parables. Beneath the light-hearted banter and storyline are lessons of the utmost importance. Highly recommended for all ages. —Chris Beatty, Founder and Editor Emeritus, Ecopress Scott Bischke does a fantastic job of integrating current events into his allegories, and readers of all ages will benefit from his books. In BAT CAVE, immigration is represented through the lens of local and migrating bats. The local bats declare ownership and refuse to share space and resources with those who arrive in large numbers and look different, bringing to light the injustice and cruelty of refusing those in need. Such storytelling can lead to great discussions in the classroom and beyond regarding immigration, colonization, and the judgements we make based on such minor details of humanity. THE CRITTER CHRONICLES engages readers to appreciate the intricate lives of the animals with whom we share the planet, while addressing the struggles of society and science from a perspective that is both approachable and enjoyable! —Kelsey Green, Writing and Leadership Professor, Montana State University BAT CAVE provides a unique opportunity for folks of all ages to learn about science and human nature via the journey and experiences of the critters in this tale. Similar to FISH TANK, BAT CAVE brings important themes to life—this time, related to disease—through the book's animal protagonists. Bischke's allegorical approach allows, even forces, us human readers to think a little bit harder about critical issues, which I appreciate and think others will, too. A thoughtful and entertaining read. — Dr. Miranda Margetts, Assistant Research Professor, Montana State University