by Katherine Ann Smith (Author)

In this children's book, twin otter boys discover a magic rock and a magic stick in a Northern California forest and learn that they can only use them for the most important purposes. Written and illustrated by a scientific illustrator, this colorful story includes many Northern California animals (insects, fish, amphibians, birds, and mammals) artfully rendered with a blend of biological accuracy and whimsy. Species making an appearance on the pages include: River Otter, North American Badger, Western Gray Squirrel, North American Raccoon, Broad-footed Mole, Black Swift, American Dipper, Scrub Jay, American Goldfinch, Marsh Wren, Belted Kingfisher, Allen's Hummingbird, Rough-skinned Newt, Pacific Giant Salamander, Pacific Tree Frog, Rainbow Trout, Flag Crayfish, Broad-banded Forest Snail, Alfalfa Looper Moth, Common Whitetail Dragonfly, and California Dancer Damselfly.