Mad About Monkeys

In this visually striking overview of monkeys, Davey pairs geometric graphics that recall poster art and African masks with information about the traits, evolution, habits, and diversity of these primates. He covers common monkey characteristics, such as their social nature, as well as those of particular monkeys—Ethiopian geladas sleep in cliff-side huddles to stay clear of predators, and crab-eating macaques “have developed an amphibious lifestyle.” Other spreads examine monkeys’ mischievous reputations (“Monkeys regularly steal from humans. Businesses and homes can be ransacked in a matter of minutes by these criminal critters”), their roles in human culture and religious beliefs, and the ways humans have affected monkey habitats. A semi-irreverent tone and stylish images (the human in a primate family tree rocks cuffed jeans and a high-and-tight hipster haircut) combine to create an arresting and informative guide to simian nature. Ages 3–7. (Aug.)