If you are looking for a gentle, meaningful picture book that blends storytelling with compassion and education, Brave Benny by Heather Leughmyer is a wonderful choice. This thoughtful story introduces young readers to the world of bats while exploring curiosity, courage, and the importance of respecting animals just as they are.

At the heart of the story is Benny, a young bat who lives the way bats are meant to live. He sleeps during the day, hunts bugs at night, and rests upside down in his tree in a quiet forest outside of town. Benny’s life is safe and familiar, but he begins to feel restless. While the other bats are content, Benny wonders what the daytime world might be like. He wants to explore more and see what exists beyond his tree and the night sky.

Benny’s curiosity leads him to make a brave but risky choice. Despite his mother’s warnings about danger in the daylight, he decides to explore the world while the sun is up. This moment in the story is especially powerful for young readers. Benny is not being disobedient out of mischief. He is curious, eager to learn, and longing to understand more about the world around him. Many children will recognize that feeling of wanting to try something new even when it feels a little scary.

As Benny ventures farther from home, the story gently shows the consequences of his choice. He encounters fear, confusion, and danger, including a tense moment with a hawk that reminds readers how vulnerable small animals can be. These scenes are written with care and sensitivity, allowing children to feel the tension without becoming overwhelmed. Benny’s fear feels real, and so does his longing to be safe again.

One of the most emotional moments in the book occurs when Benny enters a human space and becomes trapped. Confused, frightened, and far from home, he wishes he had listened to his mother. This part of the story opens the door for meaningful conversations between children and adults about safety, trust, and learning from experience. Benny’s emotions are described clearly and honestly, helping children understand that fear and regret are natural feelings.

The resolution of the story brings relief and reassurance. Benny makes it back home, safe at last, and learns something important about himself. He realizes that the night is where he belongs. This lesson is not about shame or punishment, but about self-understanding. Benny does not stop being brave or curious. Instead, he learns that being true to who you are can be its own kind of courage.

What makes Brave Benny especially valuable is the educational content included at the end of the book. Young readers are introduced to real facts about bats, including echolocation and the vital role bats play in ecosystems. The book explains how bats help control insect populations, pollinate plants, and support the health of the environment. It also addresses what to do if a bat accidentally enters a home, offering calm, humane guidance that encourages compassion rather than fear.

The author’s dedication to bats and animal welfare is clear throughout the story. Heather Leughmyer’s background as an animal advocate shines through in the respectful and caring way animals are portrayed. The illustrations by April Pedersen complement the story beautifully, adding warmth and personality to Benny’s journey while keeping the tone gentle and inviting.

Brave Benny is ideal for children ages four to eight, especially those who love animals or enjoy stories about exploration and learning. It works well as a bedtime story, a classroom read aloud, or a starting point for discussions about wildlife, empathy, and respecting nature.

This book reminds young readers that curiosity is natural, bravery comes in many forms, and animals deserve understanding and protection. Benny’s journey is one child will remember, carrying with them a greater appreciation for bats and for the quiet wisdom of listening, learning, and finding where you truly belong.