Title: The Gentleman Bat Author: Abraham Schroeder Illustrator: Piotr Parda Publisher/Year: Ripple Grove Press/2014   The Gentleman Bat is a spectacular debut for picture book publisher Ripple Grove Press. From the amazing front cover all the way to the satisfying conclusion, I was completely mesmerized and drawn into a bygone era filled not with people, but with gentleman and lady bats. The text is fluid, fun, and fantastic to read, and is complemented by beautiful watercolor and ink illustrations.  Join the gentleman bat as he takes a stroll along cobblestone streets dressed in his finest attire and ready for a night on the town. The gentleman bat, with his gentleman's cane, went out for a walk one night in the rain. He meets his lady friend and the two head to the town square where a band is playing. She accepts his offer to dance. He spun her around and dipped her down low; she giggled and laughed and kicked up her toe.

Could there be a romance brewing? Their hearts fluttered wistfully as he departed, and made his way back to his house where he started. The Gentleman Bat  is a lovely story that will entrance both children and adults. And if you are not a fan of bats, this picture book just may change the way you feel about the oft-misunderstood creature of the night.  The Gentleman Bat  is available for pre-order now and is due out October 1. Congratulations Ripple Grove Press!.