Scaredy Squirrel

Book Description

Scaredy Squirrel never leaves his nut tree. It's way too dangerous out there. He could encounter tarantulas, green Martians or killer bees. But in his tree, every day is the same and if danger comes along, he's well-prepared. Scaredy Squirrel's emergency kit includes antibacterial soap, Band-Aids and a parachute. Day after day he watches and waits, and waits and watches, until one day ... his worst nightmare comes true! Scaredy suddenly finds himself out of his tree, where germs, poison ivy and sharks lurk. But as Scaredy Squirrel leaps into the unknown, he discovers something really uplifting ...

Customer Reviews:

Great for Kids and Adults.......2007-09-09

This is my all time favorite picture book (I'm a children's librarian!).
It is great for adults too. Maybe even funnier for adults because they can understand more of the jokes. Overall though it is good for a preschooler and up. If you know anyone who is scared of the world this is the perfect gift.

Such a relevant book!.......2007-06-27

Wow. If ever there was a book about facing your fears of change, this is it! Not just for kids, Scaredy Squirrel has a poignant (and hilarious!) lesson for all of us about trying new things and experiencing the world in new ways. A great gift for those going through life changes: new school, new job, new city, new relationship--and definitely a more unique (and did I mention hilarious?) gift for new graduates than the old "Oh the Places You'll Go." And the illustrations are pretty much the cutest thing I've seen since the Toot and Puddle series.

A Visual Treat, and Funny, Too.......2007-03-11

Scaredy Squirrel, by Mélanie Watt, is a deceptively simply but tremendously funny story. Scaredy Squirrel lives a quiet, routine life in his nut tree. He never leaves the tree because he's afraid of the perils that lie in wait in the outside world: germs, sharks, poison ivy, and green martians, to name a few (would blue martians be less scary, I wonder?). He has a handy little emergency kit, and he spends most of his time on the lookout for danger (when he's not eating nuts, and looking at the view, anyway). But when danger invades his sanctuary, Scaredy Squirrel finds that the best laid plans can crumble. You'll have to read the book yourself to discover how he copes with, and is changed by, his experience.

From the very start, from picture of a nervously grinning Scaredy Squirrel on the cover, this book is irresistible. Mélanie Watt (author and illustrator) is a graphic artist, and her background comes through, decidedly to the book's advantage. Items introduced on one page often repeat later, in smaller format, as icons. My favorite are the killer bees, sparely drawn, but with menacing brows. The germs are also simple, but unmistakable. The bold lines of pictures and fonts are sure to appeal to kids of all ages, drawing the reader forward, eager to see more.

The humor in the book will appeal to adults and kids, too. Watt pokes fun at people who are afraid of everything, but it's a sympathetic sort of fun. We can tell that she's been there, too. We know what to expect from the warning on the very first page: "Warning! Scaredy Squirrel insists that everyone wash their hands with antibacterial soap before reading this book."

I also like the way that the vocabulary in the book doesn't talk down to kids. For instance: "He'd rather stay in his safe and familiar tree than risk venturing out into the unknown." Venturing. Excellent. Kids ought to know what venturing is. Venturing is the basis for adventure, after all (and not coincidentally, I'm sure).

All in all, this is a thoroughly appealing book, deserving of its Cybils award. I look forward to reading the sequel, Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend. I already consider him a friend of mine, with his timid, toothy smile, but I'll be happy to see him make more. Highly recommended for children and adults, ages 3 and up.

This book review was originally published on my blog, Jen Robinson's Book Page, on March 10, 2007.

Original and smart.......2007-02-26

I just received this book. My 2 1/2 year old son immediately wanted to read the "squirrel book." I called my 8 1/2 year old daughter into the room to join us. She laughed out loud on almost every page. Even though the book is aimed more at her level, my son followed right along for the entire book. This book sort of taught a lesson, about facing your fears, but it was not at all heavy-handed or trite. I know that we will be reading this again and again and I love that it appeals to this broad age range.

One for the nut jobs.......2007-02-02

Kids are creatures of habit. You spend their all-important first years getting them (and you, slovenly, eat-cereal-for-dinner you) into a healthy routine. After you get the hang of the whole parenting thing, evenings go like clockwork from the first slap of the plastic dinner tray to the gurgle of bath suds down the drain and the assembly line of jammies, stories, lullaby and lights out.

Deviate from this schedule at your peril.

But everybody needs to rock their world sometime, even Scaredy Squirrel, who never ventures from his nut tree. Talk about obsessive-compulsive--Watt illustrates a list of horrors that lurk in the unknown, from green Martians to sharks. It's a smallish book, about six inches square, and she makes brilliant use of every inch, from the lists of the pros and cons of never leaving his treetop home, to an inventory of what's in his emergency kit.

We don't so much visit Scaredy Squirrel as dissect his neuroses up close, point by point, phobia by phobia, using repetition to hilarious effect, both in writing and in the charcoal pencil and acrylic illustrations.

Then he falls out of that dang nut tree. Wouldn't you know it, he turns out to be a flying squirrel. There's a lesson here that's just perfect for your kid's first attempt at swimming or gymnastics or anything else that gets them out of their comfort zone.

After you pick up the pieces, of course.

Gentle Willow: A Story for Children About Dying

Average customer rating:

Great Great Book
Sweet story
Very Sweet and Kind
This book is wonderful!
Helping children deal with the pain of a terminal illness

Gentle Willow: A Story for Children About Dying
Joyce C. Mills
Manufacturer: Magination Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1591470722

Book Description

The same characters from the book "Little Tree", Amanda the Squirrel and Little Tree, reappear in a story for children who are facing death: their own, or that of a loved one. Amanda calls upon the Tree Wizards of the Forest to help Gentle Willow, who is suffering from a mysterious ailment, but the Tree Wizards are unable to help. Amanda struggles with loss, confusion, anger, and finally, hope, as she helps Gentle Willow understand and accept her death. This sensitively written story is brought to life by Chesworth's hauntingly beautiful watercolors.

Customer Reviews:

Great Great Book.......2007-07-25

I love this book. I bought this book for my 3 yr old to help explain death to him after my husband passed away. It was perfect because it explained about being sick and not being able to be fixed sometimes. This was similar to what we were going through with my husband who had cancer. Our son always knew his father has being sick and going to the doctor...so this helped to explain.

Sweet story.......2007-07-10

My daughter enjoyed the story greatly. i wouldn't say it completely gave her an understanding of death but she knows that when you die you don't come back from where ever you went. this help a lot considering my mother just passed 3 months ago and my daughter is still talking about it.

Very Sweet and Kind.......2007-03-08

This was a very sweet story. It would be best used on a child who is able to draw analogies. I am a school counselor who often deals with children in the public school setting who are not able to relate such stories to their lives. However, it is a very good book.

This book is wonderful!.......2007-02-21

My father has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and I got this book for my 9 year old daughter. It is her favorite, and I love it too. It is very gentle and calm and sweet. A story about dying and how life goes on. I love it!

Helping children deal with the pain of a terminal illness.......2002-03-04

When I first read "Gentle Willow: A Story for Children About Dying," I thought it was about preparing a child for the death of a terminally ill loved one. After all, the story tells about Amanda, a squirrel, and her friends Little Tree and Gentle Willow. One day Amanda notices that Gentle Willow looks and feels differently. Amanda becomes concerned about her friend and calls in Fixumup and Imageen the tree wizards, who check Gentle Willow and have to admit that while they can make her feel more comfortable and help her feel stronger, they cannot make her all better. The tree wizards comfort Amanda about the impending loss of her friend by explaining about the special gifts called memories.

When I finished reading this book I turned to the introduction and learned "Gentle Willow" was written for children who may not survive their illness as well as for the children who know them. I have to admit, I thought this sensitive book would also help children prepare for the death of a grandparent, or someone of any age. The basic metaphor of the caterpillars turning into butterflies applies any loved one. Dr. Mills developed this book out of an earlier effort, "Little Tree: A Story for Children with Serious Medical Problems," which reflects her specialty in storytelling as a healing process of children and adults. Obviously, this book will touch adults as well as the children for whom it was intended. The watercolor illustrations by Michael Chesworth captures the shifting tones of this tale, especially through the subtle changes on the face of Amanda, as sadness is replaced by hope through the healing power of love.

Book Description

Did you know that a groundhog is really a type of squirrel? That squirrels control their body temperature with their tails? That most squirrels have yellow-tinted eye lenses that work like sunglasses to reduce glare? That tree squirrels can turn their hind feet completely around when climbing down a tree head-first? In Squirrels: The Animal Answer Guide, Richard W. Thorington Jr. and Katie Ferrell unveil the fascinating world of one of the "most watched" mammals on the planet.

The diversity of squirrels is astounding. There are 278 species that inhabit all continents except Antarctica and Australia -- varying in size from the lumbering 18-pound gray marmot to the graceful pygmy flying squirrel that is smaller than most mice. In many parts of the world they readily share human habitats, joining us for lunch in a city park, raiding our bird feeders, and sneaking into college dorm rooms through open windows. Reviled as pests or loved as an endearing amusement, squirrels have played important roles in trade, literature, and mythology.

Thorington and Ferrell cover every aspect of this diverse animal family, from the first squirrels of 36 million years ago to the present day. With over one hundred photographs and an intuitive question-and-answer format, this authoritative and engaging guide sheds light on a common mammal that is anything but commonplace.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Book on Squirrel Biology, Behavior, and Natural History.......2007-06-08

If you have an interest in any of the squirrels in North America, you'll like this book. I am enjoying it immensely, and I have read most of the really good squirrel literature available. This new book is excellent.

Somewhere in the advertising literature, it says that the book is in question and answer form. This nearly put me off and caused me not to order the book. Don't allow that to happen to you. It is simply that the titles to each short section of the book are in the form of questions. The text that follows these headings is excellent. I'm glad I bought it.

For readers seeking knowledge of tree squirrels, I would also recommend The Natural History of Squrrels by Steele and Arizona's Tree Squirrels by David Brown. That would be in addition to, not in place of, Squrrels: The Animal Answer Book.

Smarter than it tries to be.......2007-06-05

This book is packaged a bit like a children's book, as an "animal answer guide" with lots of pictures. It is written as a series of questions and answers, though the "answers" may go for several pages and read like regular text. The Q&A format is really more of an affectation.

While much of the book could be enjoyed by pre-teens who really love squirrels, the information is probably too detailed for them. High schoolers writing a report on squirrels - - for whatever reason - - would find it very helpful. However, it's really written for a general audience.

What then will you find in this book, gentle reader? In short: everything you ever wanted to know about squirrels, and then some. You'll learn not only about the fox squirrel in your backyard but other North American squirrels such as woodchucks and marmots. You'll also learn a bit about squirrels around the world, especially in South and Southeast Asia.

The book is full of black-and-white pictures on many pages, and has two collections of color plates in the middle of the book. The black-and-white pictures tend to aim to be informative, while the color pictures are often beautiful art shots. So, if you think squirrels can be a subject of High Art, this is your book.

Actually, it's a remarkably good book on an unexpected subject. It's not quite as good as some other animals books I've reviewed (on wolves, bison and locusts - - see my reviews), and it's not really a "classic" book for anyone. so I'll only give it 4 stars. But it really deserves 4.5. It's hard to imagine a better book on squirrels.

Informative and entertaining.......2007-05-30

Very informative, but not dry. Never knew I needed an ultimate resource and go to book on squirrels, but bought it on the recommendation of a friend-- boy am I glad I did!

A unique book.......2007-05-01

Few mammalogical books deal with families of mammals leaving aside charismatic groups like cats and primates. Well, the squirrels have had the light beamed at them, and they are the stars of this compact, easily digested volume all abou the squirrels of the world. There have been a few other books on squirrels in the past with accent on few.

I enjoyed reading this book and noted its extensive list of known species, decent illustrations and overview of the group as a whole. Sadly there is still a great deal that we don't know.

This book is pitched at the non specialist non paleontologist and I would have liked to have seen more on squirrel phylogeny and paleontology. I hope this book leads to more illustrated works on this intelligent, perky family of mammals which I happen to study. They do represent keystone (charismatic, well recognised) mammals and deserve better coverage.

BACKYARD FRIENDS.......2007-03-27

If you have been observing the squirrels in your backyard or garden, and have been wondering just what they are "thinking" or what they are "up to," this is the book for you. Very well written, and particularly well organized, it is a book that you go back to again and again, right after observing your furry friends. You will enjoy it!

Average customer rating:

Best Children's Book Series!
A cute, colorful, and fun children's book with a really great message
The sequel is even better than the first book
My kids loved this book
Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend: 83% Safe!

Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend

Manufacturer: Kids Can Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1554531810

Book Description

That lovable little worrywart is back. And he's as scaredy as ever! In his latest adventure, Scaredy Squirrel sets out to make The Perfect Friend. And once he's spotted a perfectly safe candidate (with no teeth), Scaredy's ready. Armed with a name tag, mittens, a mirror and a lemon, he's prepared to make The Perfect First Impression. But just when every detail is under control, Scaredy's Action Plan takes a surprising -- and "toothy" -- turn ... Will he survive this ordeal? Will he find his kindred spirit? Will he discover the true meaning of friendship? Read Scaredy's nutty story to find out ...

Customer Reviews:

Best Children's Book Series!.......2007-06-27

My family LOVES this book! The first one is also great!
We get a lot of children's books at the library for our daughter and this is the most enjoyable to read book we have ever checked out! My husband and I like the whole series so much we ended up purchasing some of them for our own home library collection.

A cute, colorful, and fun children's book with a really great message.......2007-06-03

I love Scaredy Squirrel. I was updating some computers the other day, and - to help pass the time - I happened to pick up a copy of Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend. This little guy is so cute and funny, and I can identify with him because I've always been a bit of a scaredy squirrel myself. Scaredy doesn't really have any friends because he's afraid to leave his tree. It's a dangerous world out there, and a squirrel never knows when he might be set upon by a deadly rabbit, piranha, walrus, or even Godzilla. Then one day, Scaredy spots someone who passes his Perfect Friend test with flying colors - a squeaky clean, quiet, 100% safe goldfish. It's time to put Operation First Impression into effect. It's a pretty elaborate plan he's drawn up which involves a number of objects, including - of course - his "Hello, My name is Scaredy" nametag, mittens to avoid the effects of sweaty paws, the creation of a careful distraction, and more. Ever wary of danger, he also has a backup plan to avoid contact with any potentially harmful creature.

As luck would have it, he's barely out of his tree before his handy little mirror reveals a wet, dirty, toothy dog coming up behind him. The chase is on, wearing Scaredy down to the point that he eventually falls back on his plan of last resort - playing dead. Then a funny thing happens. The dog doesn't go anywhere. Eventually, Scaredy realizes that the dog is just looking for a friend, just like he is.

This is a great book for young children, especially those who tend to be on the shy side. The artwork is colorful, engaging, and fun, and the very entertaining story does a great job of teaching youngsters that you can't judge an animal (or person) by appearance alone - and that you won't make any good friends if you're too timid to get to know those around you. The best friend you'll ever have may be the last person you would ever expect him/her to be.

The sequel is even better than the first book.......2007-04-08

I absolutely loved the Cybils-winning picture book Scaredy Squirrel, by Mélanie Watt. I can't tell you how thrilled I am to report that Scaredy Squirrel is back with a sequel. And it's even better than the first book. In Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend, our neurotic young friend gradually comes to realize that spending all of his time alone up in a tree is perhaps not the most fun that life has to offer. He sets out on a mission to make a friend, though the friend who he ends up with is not quite the one that he expected.

This book has all of the attributes that worked in the first book, strong line drawings, expressive icons, and a mix of full-page and smaller inset panels. The icons include a variety of individuals who might be biters, and hence are not promising friend material (including Godzilla and bunnies). The activities that Scaredy Squirrel undertakes by himself to pass the time include knitting and chatting with a sock puppet. The "perfect friend" that he identifies has various safe attributes (including being germ-free, with the same germ icons from the previous book). And Scaredy Squirrel's plan for making a perfect first impression is hilarious. "Make sure name tag is visible." "Wear mittens to hide sweaty paws." And so on.

Don't you love a book that makes you laugh? Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend made me laugh out loud on nearly every page. I think that the funniest was Scaredy's Risk Test for potential friends, including incisive questions like "What's your hobby? Biting or other."

Oh, I'm simply in love with this book. Parents will like it because it's well-constructed, with engaging pictures and entertaining text. Kids will like it because they'll be able to relate to Scaredy's fears, while feeling superior due to not being quite so fearful themselves. If you know any kids about to start Kindergarten, or about to enter any environment where they'll be meeting new people, you simply must buy them this book.

This book review was originally published on my blog, Jen Robinson's Book Page, on April 7, 2007.

My kids loved this book.......2007-04-07

This story is comical and entertaining. My kids are looking forward to more about this neurotic squirrel.

Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend: 83% Safe!.......2007-03-07

Scaredy Squirrel is back, and this time he's preparing to make a friend. And preparing is the right word as Scaredy Squirrel does not go into the world unarmed. In fact, Scaredy Squirrel even knows ahead of time who would make a good friend and who wouldn't:

"A few individuals Scaredy Squirrel is afraid to be bitten by: walruses, bunnies, beavers, piranhas, Godzilla."

Scaredy Squirrel decides on a goldfish as a new friend, because he has a "bubbly personality," is "squeaky clean" and "quiet" and, most importantly, has "NO teeth" and is "germ-free." A goldfish doesn't do much, "BUT is 100% safe!"

But a funny thing happens on the way to the pond. A dog begins to chase Scaredy Squirrel and, after several hours of playing dead, Scaredy realizes the dog only wants to play. Scaredy must reevaluate and finds his "almost perfect friend" has "muddy paws," "wet doggy smell," a "loud bark," "drool," "germs," and "tooth." Most poignantly, dog is "83% safe, but Lots of Fun!" Aren't all good friends the same?

Mélanie Watt's Scaredy Squirrel books are charming not only because they give a scaredy squirrel (or kid) a little nudge, but also because her cartoonish illustrations are cheerful, drop-dead funny, and full of intriguing details. She also indulges the little ones with series of lists as Scaredy goes about his day. (Have you ever noticed how much the 3- to 5-crowd loves a good list?) For example, when Scaredy is preparing to befriend goldfish, we learn of "A few items Scaredy Squirrel needs to make the Perfect Friend: lemon, name tag, mittens, comb, mirror, air freshener, toothbrush, chewtoy." Each item is placed in its own illustrated box. The air freshener does come in handy, but I won't spoil the pleasure in finding out how.

"Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend" is perfect for the three- to seven-year old reader and is an excellent choice for a school or library read aloud. Risk-averse children everywhere will thank you.

Mistmantle Chronicles, The: Urchin and the Heartstone - Book #2 (Mistmantle Chronicles)

Average customer rating:

Great fo kids
awesome book
High interest reading for kids
Wonderful Sequel of "Urchin of the Riding Stars"

Mistmantle Chronicles, The: Urchin and the Heartstone - Book #2 (Mistmantle Chronicles)
M.i. Mcallister
Manufacturer: Miramax
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 078685488X

Book Description

As summer dawns on the island of Mistmantle, its inhabitants prepare for the coronation of Crispin the Squirrel. Robes are stitched, cakes are baked, wine is brought up from cellars, and the Heartstone -- the unique gold-and-silver flecked stone that only the priest or the rightful ruler of the island can hold -- is readied.But the newly established peace in Mistmantle is soon under threat. A storm-ravaged ship from a distant land appears in the mists surrounding the island; a dramatic revelation about the revered Heartstone comes to light; and the extra-sensory powers of a young islander reveal the evil close at hand. Urchin finds himself journeying to a hostile island, where the maniacal King Silverbirch and his sorcerer Smokewreath await him. There, Urchin will have to face challenges greater than those he has ever known, and in doing so he will learn a secret about his past that will change his life forever.

Customer Reviews:

Great fo kids.......2007-05-30

I bought this for my daughter last month and she can't wait for the next book to come out. I read the book as well and even though it is predictable, it is a very charming story. Kids with a [..]reading level should have no problem with the book and they will probably really get into the story.

awesome book.......2007-03-12

"I enjoy this book as much as the first one", says my daughter.

High interest reading for kids.......2007-03-08

As a teacher, I have read both Mistmantle books with my students. The first book was chosen from the book fair to be used in a Literature Circle. There were 5 students in the group. The second by popular demand...more than 10 students bought the book. The discussion was terrific. The kids loved it and couldn't wait to read!

Wonderful Sequel of "Urchin of the Riding Stars".......2006-08-30

URCHIN AND THE HEARTSTONE is the book #2 from the 3 book series THE MISTMANTLE CHRONICLES. It is as good as its predecessor URCHIN OF THE RIDING STARS. The book is packed with action and intrigue and, as usual, M. I. McAllister excells in her depiction of characters. The friendship, courage and wisdom of the main characters are the qualities that every child reading this book will relate to. This is a fairy tale with wonderful descriptions of far-away places that reminded me of all good things from my childhood: from the play in the snow, to my faithfull friends, to the sweets grandma used to make...
M. I. McAllister creates a wonderful world where the ideals of good, justice, courage, friendship and faith are being held high.
The drawings of the cover and at the beginning of each chapters are very well done and in tone with the book.
I recommend this book for children over 5 years of age. Adults that like to remember the good old fairy tales will absolutely love it.

Oh Rats! The Story of Rats and People: The Story of Rats and People

Average customer rating:

Oh Rats! At least the illustrations are good. . .
Fascinating reading.
Rat a tat tat tat

Oh Rats! The Story of Rats and People: The Story of Rats and People
Albert Marrin
Manufacturer: Dutton Juvenile
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | History & Historical Fiction | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0525477624

Book Description

Able to claw straight up a brick wall, squeeze through a pipe the width of a quarter, and gnaw through iron and concrete, rats are also revealed in this fascinating book to be incredibly intelligent and capable of great compassion. Weaving science, history, culture, and folklore, awardwinning writer Albert Marrin offers a look at rats that goes from curious to repulsive, horrifying to comic, fearsome to inspiring. Arresting blackand- white scratchboard illustrations with bold red accents add visual punch to this study of a creature that has annoyed, disgusted, nourished, and intrigued its human neighbors throughout the centuries.

Customer Reviews:

Oh Rats! At least the illustrations are good. . ........2006-10-28

Although the illustrations are quite nice, the text is extremely anecdotal and should not be taken seriously. Rat shows are not referred to as "Pageants for Pretty Rats" - that phrase is actually part of the title of a Wall Street Journal article discussing domestic rodents (not listed in the 'bibliography' BTW). The author also loosely refers to multiple species as 'rats' which is very confusing. Norway rats, black rats, Gambian rats, and kiore are all lumped together for most of the book, even though the animals are very different.

The author also missed many wonderful opportunities. For example, on page 20, he discusses rats as pests in the White House, and Teddy Roosevelt leading rat hunts in the dining room. However, a true scholar of rats would have known that Teddy Roosevelt and his children actually kept multiple pet rats, and a black and white hooded rat named 'Jonathan' was a particular favourite - in the White House dining room.

Not really approprite for kids who need to learn real information about rodents, not tall tales disgused as facts. But the illustrations will satisfy any adult rat-o-phile!

Fascinating reading........2006-10-08

C.B. Mordan's dark woodcuts are perfect to accompany OH RATS! THE STORY OF RATS AND PEOPLE. Here science, history and natural history blend to provide a spirited, lovely account of rats and their interactions with humans. Kids in grades 3-5 will find this fascinating reading.

Rat a tat tat tat.......2006-08-27

I thought I knew a lot about rats. I did. After having read Robert Sullivan's book for adults, "Rats: Observations on the History and Habitat of the City's Most Unwanted Inhabitants", I found myself under the distinct impression that Sullivan had told me everything about rats that there was to know. Imagine my shock then when, upon picking up Albert Marrin's, "Oh, Rats!: The Story of Rats and People", I discovered fact after fact after fact that I didn't know at all. Did you know that there was once a prehistoric rat that was seven feet long 17 million years ago? Or that a rat can collapse its skeleton so as to fit into tight places? Marrin doesn't just look at rats. He examines their bad and good (they have some) qualities in such a way that his book comes across as the foremost children's literature authority on the critters proper. Stir in C.B. Mordan's woodcut-like illustrations and you have yourself one heckuva book. One that will have even its adult readers alternately aghast and entranced.

Rats. You know 'em. You hate 'em. But no matter what your thoughts on these large rodentia, you've never seen them like this. In scintillating detail, Albert Marrin tracks the rat/human progress and how one species has helped or hurt (usually hurt) the other over the course of our evolution. From their ancestors to how they've killed us with plague, eaten our food, or been eaten by us (yum!) we see rats in every form and face. We view them as caring family members and fast breeders. Anything and everything a kid may ever want to know about rats is here, and its hard to look away from what Marrin is displaying before our eyes (no matter how much you may want to).

As to their intelligence, Marrin spares no detail. Some rats have learned to "fish" by dangling their worm-like tails in the water and then pouncing on the interested fishies. Time after time Marrin was surprising me with what he knew. Listen to this: "Sometimes able-bodied rats lead blind rats. They do this by allowing the blind rat to hold on to the tail of another or by holding one end of a stick in its mouth". I was happy to see that in the course of Marrin's rat history he included some information on lab rat testing. It's an evenhanded account, offering both sides of the debate and giving kids the chance to decide whether or not they think it's useful or uselessly cruel.

The design of the book is incredibly impressive as well. First of all, you have C.B. Mordan's pictures dotting every page, so well done there. Then, at the same time, the pages are broken up in various boxes. The only colors in this book are black, white, and a deep scarlet. Scarlet boxes move from page to page offering sidenotes of equal or surpassing interest to the text itself. Sometimes the book will open up onto a full-page picture of rats balancing on telephone wires or led by a Pied Piper to their doom. And on occasion Marrin seems to run out of strictly rat-related factoids so he may, for example, complement a passage on rat-eating with a list of other peculiar foods people will eat. You'll find "blue jay stomachs" and "flies in honey sauce" amongst others.

I kept marking the interesting passages so that I'd remember them when I wrote this review. Then, when it came time to review this book, I found myself overwhelmed by the number of interesting facts I'd marked. A single pair of rats can have 359 million descendants in three years! Isn't that wild? Or that a "rat king" is when a bunch of rats are stuck together by their tails. Or that rats lived with cavemen. It's true! And they cripple elephants in zoos (I'll spare you how). Or that, "the U.S. Department of Agriculture sets standards for the amount of rodent hairs and feces allowed in food such as peanut butter". I feel badly not telling you about every single interesting passage I marked up, but you may as well read the book as listen to me. Let's just say there were at least ten other passages marked in my copy of "Oh, Rats!" that I'm bitterly regretting not recounting them here.

The Bibliography in the back was especially interesting. Not only was there a proper listing of all rat-related nonfiction (both for children and adults) but also a list of suggested reading. Here you will find books on rat care, rats in literature, classic children's books like "Charlotte's Web" that contain rats, and a "More Books To Enjoy" section that contains rat characters of every stripe. From "Gregor the Overlander" to "Redwall", the best-known rats are here for kids to read up on. An excellent idea for a Bibliography all around. With all this citing from a factual bonanza it seems odd that Marrin would relate that the "Ring Around the Rosy" poem is definitely about the plague. There is no hard and fast evidence to support this and many claim to have debunked the theory in the past. It's a fun idea, but no one has ever come up with a clear cut Middle English recounting of the poem. Marrin does not mention this.

Still, for the most part, "Oh, Rats!" is just purely factual fun. A non-fiction title that kids can enjoy, parents can enjoy, and anyone who's ever wondered about rodentia proper can appreciate. Even people like myself who thought they knew all there was to know about the nasty critters will find themselves time and time again shocked and delighted by all the facts Marrin was able to relate. Kid-friendly, very pleasant on the eye, and just a delight through and through. A top notch presentation from a top notch author/illustrator team.

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Rakkety Tam
One of the best
Rakkety Tam
Wonderful reading for all ages
One of Redwalls's best!

Rakkety Tam: A Tale from Redwall
Brian Jacques
Manufacturer: Puffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 014240683X
Release Date: 2006-09-21

Book Description

There has never been a Redwall hero quite like Rakkety Tam, the roguish Highlander squirrel who sets off for Mossflower Wood on a mercenary errand and loses his heart to the charms of Redwall Abbey. And there's never been a villain quite like Gulo the Savage: a vicious beast-eating wolverine who descends upon the Abbey in search of a relic called the Walking Stone. Readers will cheer at the return of the Long Patrol, the antics of a renegade vole thief, and the emergence of a new champion to wield the sword of Martin. As fans of Brian Jacques and Redwall know, the adventures just keep getting bigger and bigger.

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"The most captivating Redwall novel yet! There has never been a Redwall hero quite like Rakkety Tam, the roguish Highlander squirrel who sets off for Mossflower Wood on a mercenary errand and loses his heart to the charms of Redwall Abbey. And there's never been a villain quite like Gulo the Savage: a vicious beast-eating wolverine who descends upon the Abbey in search of a relic called the Walking Stone. Readers will cheer at the return of the Long Patrol, the antics of a renegade vole thief, and the emergence of a new champion to wield the sword of Martin. As fans of Brian Jacques and the bestselling Redwall series know, the adventures just keep getting bigger and better."

Customer Reviews:

Rakkety Tam.......2007-07-28

A Redwall book - and that means fun dialog, great descriptions of feasts, excellent villans and heros, and a few minor variations on the common framework.

You can most likely jump in anywhere in the series, so if you haven't read any others you *could* start here. However, for most this will be a story read along the way, either in order of publication or in order of the timeline posted on the Redwall site - me, I like to go in publishing order. Enjoy!

One of the best.......2007-03-19

This is one of the best Redwall books that I have read, and have reada them all

Rakkety Tam.......2006-12-09

I rated this boook a five star because of all the action and all of the adventure. It is about a young squirrel who is a huge trouble maker who knows he should do something good in his life.But there is someone who finds out about Tammo and tries to kill him.I can only say someone dies who will it be I.......cannot say.

Wonderful reading for all ages .......2006-09-09

This book is from an incredibly well written series starting with the original "Redwall" book. The "formula" is good against evil, loyalty and honor with only the glory of a job well done and the genuine gratitude that goes to those who stand up for what good and right no matter what the bad guys promise. Another tale in a not to be missed series of books for all-age readers

One of Redwalls's best!.......2006-08-12

I loved this book from start to finish, it had a twist having a hero that didn't come from redwall,(Most of them do). It had me on the edge of my seat during the final battle between Tam and Gulo, the characters were great; as always, and it was just, in general a good book. My favorite creatures are squirrels so i loved it,i cant wait to read the next redwall book!

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Enchanting children's book!
A warm picturebook tale of animal friends
Great way to get kids interested in gardening
Charming yet factual

How Groundhog's Garden Grew

Manufacturer: Blue Sky Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Picture Books | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0439323711

Book Description

Little Groundhog, in trouble for stealing from his friends' gardens, is taught by Squirrel to grow his very own. From seed-gathering to planting, harvesting, and eating home-grown fruits and vegetables, children join Little Groundhog in learning about the gardening process. At the end, Little Groundhog invites his animal friends to a Thanksgiving harvest feast. Beautiful illustrations and thorough research on plants and insects make this sweet story an engrossing read, as well as a great picture-book introduction to how plants grow. Children and schools can follow Groundhog's lessons.

Customer Reviews:

Enchanting children's book!.......2006-03-20

This book is utterly charming! I have to admit, I bought it for our toddler because I fell in love with the drawings and wanted to own a copy. The book tells the story of a little groundhog who learns all about growing his own food from his mentor, a squirrel. The story takes us through the whole year, and Ms. Cherry's illustrations of animals and plants are wonderful! We have a small vegetable garden every year, and I believe my son will know more of what goes on in the garden this year. The book will also appeal to an older child, as it gets into things like pollination, but my son loves this book!

A warm picturebook tale of animal friends.......2003-07-27

Lynne Cherry's How Groundhogs Garden Grew may require parental assistance but kids with some prior picturebook skills will relish this story of a little groundhog who loves to eat the vegetables in his neighbor's garden. The cycle of a gardening year is told within the structure of a warm picturebook tale of animal friends, and the drawings are especially engaging.

Great way to get kids interested in gardening.......2003-02-21

My three year old and I are planning a garden and this book has been an excellent companion to the process. Cherry does a great job of explaining how to create a garden through this story. In it Squirrel teaches Groundhog how to grow his own vegetables so he has things to eat. Cherry also includes a note to parents at the end that gives website information for more on gardening with children.

Charming yet factual.......2003-02-02

This is a wonderful book, bound to be a classic. Would appeal to any children, but especially those involved in starting a vegetable garden.

Squirrel Inc.: A Fable of Leadership through Storytelling

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Engaging Hearts - Earning Commitment
A Humorous Delivery of Leadership Storytelling
Nuts R Us
I didn't get it!!
Leadership Includes The Art of Storytelling

Squirrel Inc.: A Fable of Leadership through Storytelling
Stephen Denning
Manufacturer: Jossey-Bass
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0787973718

Book Description

Take a satirical scamper through organizational life in the midst of changing times, brought to you by master storyteller and former World Bank executive Steve Denning. With wisdom and a healthy dose of wit, Denning introduces a cast of furry characters who together learn the fine art of change through storytelling in their quest to overcome obstacles, generate enthusiasm and teamwork, share knowledge, and ultimately lead their company into a new era of success and significance. Through the stories of Squirrel Inc., readers will learn that the ability to tell the right story at the right time can determine the outcome of any major change effort. In each chapter Denning's squirrels learn to use storytelling to address leadership challenges:

How to bring about change
How to communicate who you are
How to transmit values
How to foster collaboration
How to stop rumors
How to share knowledge
How to lead your organization into the future

Download Description

How to bring about change
How to communicate who you are
How to transmit values
How to foster collaboration
How to stop rumors
How to share knowledge

How to lead your organization into the future

Customer Reviews:

Engaging Hearts - Earning Commitment.......2006-09-26

In "Squirrel Inc.: A Fable of Leadership through Storytelling" Stephen Denning describes, in the spirit of a fable about squirrels leading change at Squirrel, Inc., how to use stories to engage constituents and earn their commitment to change.
Leadership, both formal and informal, is about engaging hearts, convincing minds, and earning committed actions. While we linear, logical thinkers are more prone toward selling through convincing logic (aka, `data'), both emotional intelligence and marketing research suggest that people buy (and buy-into) with their emotions before they commit with their minds. Effective stories touch the heart! Denning, uses the different requirements subsequent situations in the `change journey' at Squirrel, Inc. to demonstrate different story structures. Differing leadership objectives include: Sparking Organizational Change; Revealing Who You Are and Earning Trust; Getting Individuals to Work Together; Transmitting Values; Taming the Grapevine; Sharing Knowledge; and Creating a Future. To help readers recognize and remember appropriate story structures, Denning includes summaries of story structures at the end of each chapter. Much like most of us have graduated from black and white to colored presentations, effective leaders are moving from influencing solely through data/information and graduating to telling effective stories.
I recommend "Squirrel, Inc." for every leader who recognizes their need for engaging both the hearts and the minds of their team members.

A Humorous Delivery of Leadership Storytelling.......2005-11-27

This book has only two problems that keep it from being a masterpiece:

1. Mr. Denning later wrote The Leader's Guide to Storytelling which covers the same material much more thoroughly and helpfully; and

2. The fable is built around a mythical company of squirrels that provides nut burying services but is having problems. I had a hard time getting my mind around that metaphor. By contrast when Dr. Spencer Johnson teaches me about mice being in trouble when their cheese is moved, I don't have the same problem with the metaphor.

I recommend that you mainly use this book as a humorous side trip into leadership story telling. If you don't fell like you need such a humorous journey, you can certainly skip this book.

If you do skip Squirrel Inc., I urge you to read Mr. Denning's two "serious" books on the subject in this order: Start with The Springboard and then move on to The Leader's Guide to Storytelling. I've written reviews of both of those books recently if you want to check them out. Both are superb and are must reads for any leader who wants to be effective.

If you have to choose between reading Leading Change and The Springboard, choose The Springboard.

Nuts R Us.......2005-05-28

Think about it. Who are among the greatest storytellers throughout history? My own list includes Homer, Plato, Chaucer, Aesop, Jesus, Dante, Boccaccio, the Brothers Grimm, Confucius, Abraham Lincoln, Hans Christian Andersen, Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (Lewis Carroll), Joel Chandler Harris, L. Frank Baum, and most recently, E.B. White. Whatever the genre (epic, parable, fable, allegory, anecdote, etc.), each used exposition, description, and narration to illustrate what they considered to be fundamental truths about the human condition.

In his previous work, The Springboard, Denning focuses on "how storytelling ignites action in knowledge-led organizations" and does so with uncommon erudition, precision, and eloquence. His narrative covers a period of approximately three years during which he used what he calls "springboard" stories to "spark organizational change" at The World Bank. More specifically, to forge a consensus within that organization to support the design and then implementation of effective knowledge management, first for itself and then for its clients worldwide. How he accomplished that objective is in and of itself a fascinating "story" but the book's greater value lies in what he learned in process, lessons which are directly relevant to virtually all other organizations (regardless of size or nature) which struggle to "do more with less and do it faster" in the so-called Age of Information. Maximizing use of their collective intellectual capital is most often the single most effective way to do that.

In this volume, Denning uses many of the same devices which Orwell does in Animal Farm: He creates a stressful situation to which anthropomorphic animals respond; the lead characters discuss what to do; strategies are selected; conflicts and crises immediately develop; tension is increased by the perils the lead characters encounter; ultimately, the situation is resolved. In Animal Farm, the pigs prevail. In Squirrel Inc.,....

Whereas Orwell's purpose is to dramatize the evils of totalitarianism, Denning's purpose is to give "detailed advice on how to craft and perform a story that can spark transformational change in an organization" by examining six different kinds of storytelling "which illustrate the impact of storytelling on our work and our lives." Although this is a fable of leadership, it is important to keep in mind that (a) everyone throughout any organization tells stories of various kinds each day; therefore (b) the value of the information which Denning provides and the recommendations he makes is by no means limited to senior-level executives.

Why a fable? When considering how he could best communicate the various kinds of stories (e.g. "springboard" stories that communicate complex ideas and spark action), their specific uses in modern organizations, and their relevant similarities and differences, Denning "quickly discovered that conveying an understanding of seven types of stories across four or five different dimensions represented a level of complexity not well adapted to text-book style presentation."

I include that excerpt because many of those who read this book will also find themselves in situations in which they are preparing to make an especially important presentation and use of a traditional format is not appropriate. Their audience will not respond as well to the "textbook-style" as they will to a entertaining as well as informative narrative which seeks to achieve one or more of these objectives:

To spark action
To communicate who the speaker is
To transmit values
To get everyone working together
To share knowledge
To "tame the grapevine"
To lead people into the future

Here's the situation. Diana is a fast-track executive at Squirrel Inc. who is frustrated by her inability to convince senior-management to transform the company's core business from helping squirrels to bury nuts to storing nuts for them. Why should it? Because approximately 50% of the nuts buried are lost, either because squirrels forget where they buried them or the nuts are dug up by human gardeners. Great opportunity for Squirrel Inc. She shares her frustrations with Bartender who is the owner/host of a nectar tavern located high in an oak tree near the Squirrel Inc. headquarters. (He is also this book's narrator and thus, in several respects, a surrogate for Denning.) Throughout the remainder of the book, Denning focuses on Diana and Bartender's joint efforts to use effective storytelling to mobilize the support needed to transform Squirrel Inc.

Because Denning is himself a master storyteller, never does his narrative become precious, cute, quaint, darling, etc. Credit him with wit, style, grace, and -- yes -- intellectual rigor. His characters may be squirrels but the relevance of his material to human experience is profound: "The underlying reason for the affinity between leadership and storytelling is simple: narrative -- unlike abstraction and analysis -- is inherently collaborative. Storytelling helps leaders work with other individuals as coparticipants, not merely as objects or underlings. Storytelling helps strengthen leaders' connectedness with the world. Isn't this what all leaders need -- a connectedness with the people they are seeking to lead?"

I especially appreciate Denning's provision of a chart ("Seven High-Value Forms of Organizational Storytelling," pages 150-153) which clearly and cleverly summarizes all of his core concepts and specific suggestions. It serves as a useful reminder that the most effective story is one which has a crystal clear objective and includes the appropriate elements (e.g. problem to be solved, situation to be explained, value of the information provided). The story must also meet certain requirements of the given purpose. For example, provision of relevant background information and an analysis of current situation before proposing a future course of action, especially one which may seem bold and threatening to others.

For whatever reasons, only in recent years has there been an awareness and appreciation of the importance of the business narrative. Those who share my high regard for this book are urged to check out Annette Simmons' The Story Factor, Doug Lipman's Improving Your Storytelling, and Storytelling in Organizations co-authored by John Seely Brown, Denning, Katarina Groh, and Laurence Prusak.

I didn't get it!!.......2005-04-07

I found the concept and the content of this book oversimplified and not very useful

Leadership Includes The Art of Storytelling.......2004-12-22

I was happy to see someone remind today's leaders of the purpose and power of storytelling. A good story not only makes the point but also creates both an understanding and a memory of the event. That memory, in turn, can be passed on from employee to employee.

Using squirrels to illustrate how to create and deliver a story is a clever way to help the reader understand storytelling, and for those not interested in squirrels, Denning provides helpful sidebars that summarize the text (thank you). The author also provides a chapter summary. More importantly, in the final pages Denning outlines the Seven High-Value Forms of Organizational Storytelling. This table is an excellent guide for the right story at the right time.

Denning has much to offer the reader. I found the essence of his message in the sidebars and the guidelines at the end of the chapters. There you will discover his wit, his understanding, and his valuable insight. For example, "The leader is someone who has seen the meaning of what is sweet in life and what is terrible and who then goes undeterred to meet what is to come."

Squirrel Inc. is a fast read for busy people and a fun read for those that like a good story. I liked it.

The Ultimate Guide to Squirrel Hunting: Everything You Need to Know to Hunt This Popular Game Animal

Average customer rating:

The ultimte guide to squirrel hunting
Great for the beginner
This book gives a broad prespective.
Good reference material..
A very detailed and informative book (A+)

The Ultimate Guide to Squirrel Hunting: Everything You Need to Know to Hunt This Popular Game Animal
Bob Gooch
Manufacturer: The Lyons Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Hunting | Hunting & Fishing | Outdoors & Nature | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1592285872

Book Description

Tips on hunting the ultimate prey: those #&$#! squirrels.

Customer Reviews:

The ultimte guide to squirrel hunting.......2007-10-10

This book is clearly for someone who has never seen a squirrel , much less attempted to hunt one!!!!!

Great for the beginner.......2007-06-19

At 40 years old, I've decided to learn how to hunt and to share the experience with my kids. I figured that we'd start small, and it doesn't get much smaller (or tastier, from what I hear) than squirrels. So this book looked like an attractive starting guide at a good price.

I found the book to be highly informative, a pleasant read, and I'd recommend it to anyone. Bob Gooch uses what I'd call a "codger" style -- the old woodsman teaches us young whippersnappers how to outfox the bushy-tailed tree rat. I've read and reread this book several times, and plan to use it as a guide when I take the kids out for our first squirrel hunt this coming October.

This book gives a broad prespective........2006-03-10

This book is mostly for those that still hunt squirrels. It gives a broad prespective into hunting squirrels in different states with an State by State breakdown of squirrel activity. How when and where to hunt squirrels and different methods of taking these little tree rats.

It touches on hunting squirrels with dogs but just briefly and mentions a using terrier or Jack Russel to hunt squirrel with. (which rates far behind the use of an Original Mountain Cur)

Overall I enjoyed the book, it is a good read and does not get slow or boring for me throughout the book. It's well put together in a hardback color glossy cover. The pictures in the book are also good quality.

I give it a 4 out of 5 stars, I do not regret buying the book and it has earned it's space on my bookshelf to be thumbed through again if I ever needed insight into squirrel hunting any other state than my own.

Good reference material.........2005-12-28

Bob Gooch has done a nice job of updating his previous book, "Squirrels and Squirrel Hunting". This new book should be on every tree squirrel hunter's shelf. Especially helpful to beginners is how to field dress the squirrel. Most have a difficult time with that part of the hunt and his method is quick and easy.

With big game hunting becoming increasingly expensive, more hunters are turning to squirrel hunting as a relatively inexpensive pastime. Squirrel hunting remains a real challenge for a .22 (or .17) caliber rimfire hunter.

I hope Bob will update his book, "Spinning for Trout" as well.

A very detailed and informative book (A+).......2005-12-01

This is a great book. It covers every aspect of hunting this popular and common game animal. The recipe section is a nice bonus as well as the sections that focus on habitat management and conservation. If you hunt squirrels or are considering doing so in the future get this book, you will be glad you did.

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