This book investigates the biological characteristics and behavioral patterns of bats to dispel common misconceptions surrounding the species. Nina Leen, a renowned photographer for Life magazine, utilizes her extensive archive of nature photography to document the physical traits and habitats of various bat species. The text provides a framework for understanding these mammals as complex, essential components of their ecosystems rather than the pests they are often perceived to be.

Experts and readers frequently note the accessibility of the text, which serves as a foundational visual introduction to chiropterology for general audiences. The work is recognized for its historical significance in wildlife photography and its role in humanizing a frequently maligned animal group.