100 animals that can f*cking end you

Ndiaye, who achieved TikTok fame during the COVID lockdown by sharing deadly aspects of the animal kingdom, has created a visual guide to the world's deadliest creatures. In order to properly rate them, Ndiaye created the merk scale, rating creatures on a scale of 1--10 based on aggression, number of fatal human encounters, toxicity, and his "own admittedly biased opinion." Entries, arranged alphabetically by animal name, include a listing of where the animal can be found, and most appear on a two-page spread. African elephants, chimpanzees and Bengal tigers rate a ten, while Japanese spider crabs score a one. Tips for improving your chances of survival are also sometimes included. Interspersed among the animal entries are some general information entries, such as "Animals That Look Deadly But Aren't," and "Normal Things That Animals Do That Would Kill You." The layout is bright and eye-catching with large color photographs. The writing style is lively--for example, Ndiaye refers to zebras as "homicidal bar codes." Ndiaye's irreverent style and disturbing observations will amuse and inform readers.

Self-described "internet zoologist" Ndiaye gleefully expounds on the rather large number of animals who can kill a human. The author gained a huge following posting animal-related videos on TikTok during the COVID lockdown and makes a great narrator of his own work. He combines facts with humor and an ability to include ingenious turns of phrase that will make listeners determined to hear every word. Mostly focused on the ways one can meet their maker, there are also some survival tips, and, if those fail, suggestions on how to make peace at the end. The print version of this book contains lots of great photos and graphics, but the audio makes one feel like they are in the room with the author, which is a fun place to be. VERDICT Recommended for nature lovers, anyone who spends time watching cute animal videos, and science buffs. Some adult language is included, so beware of recommending to young children. Do your patrons a favor and make this delightful audio book available to them. Most everyone else will thank you.--Christa Van Herreweghe