Kids Get A Close-up Look At Animal Skulls

COVINGTON, La. - Aug. 1, 2015 - PRLog -- Sweet little hands. Innocent eyes. Is there anything cuter than a raccoon? But beneath all that soft fur lurks something surprising: It’s the raccoon’s skull and it doesn’t look like what kids expect.

In his new children’s science book titled, SKULLS (http://www.amazon.com/Skulls-Mike-Artell/dp/0991089421/ref=cm_sw_em_r_dpod_VlQUvb0RRPND0_tt), multi-award-winning children’s author/illustrator Mike Artell takes young readers on a close-up journey into the skulls of two dozen mammals, birds, fish and reptiles. “There are lots of images of the sinus cavities, eye sockets and textures that are part of each skull,” Artell explains. “Most kids are surprised when they see the photos. The skulls look much more prehistoric than they expect.”

The weirdest skull? That prize goes to the babirusa, whose lower canine teeth can curl up, around and back into its head. Most surprising skull? The elephant. The large nasal opening in the top of its skull may have been the inspiration for the Cyclops in Greek mythology.

With the increased emphasis on making science accessible and appealing to elementary school students, Artell’s goal was to write and illustrate a fun science book that even reluctant readers would enjoy. In addition to the skull images, he includes fun facts about each animal, cartoons, jokes and a skull matching quiz. And for those kids who want more information, Artell includes a resource supplement with web sites on the subject.

Mike Artell is the author (and usually the illustrator) of more than 40 books. His best known book is, PETITE ROUGE – A CAJUN RED RIDING HOOD which among its other awards was named 2009 Read Aloud Book of the Year by the National Association of Elementary School Principals. Each year, Mike Artell visits more than 50 schools in the U.S. and abroad where he shares his techniques for thinking, writing and drawing more creatively with 14,000+ students in grades K – 8.

Mike is available for interviews and appearances. Contact him by phone/text at 985 789-3423 or by email at mike@mikeartell.com

Skulls Hardcover  $19.95  ISBN-13: 978-0991089437

Skulls Softcover $12.50  ISBN 978-0991089420

Skulls Kindle edition $1.99