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Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite
Squirrelly the Squirrel and Starlett is a children’s book written by Larry Friend and illustrated by Sidney Makis. Born high up in an old oak tree, Squirrelly and his siblings are well nurtured and quickly grow, requiring that the boy squirrels move out into their winter nest. Afraid of heights, Squirrelly is unsure of how he will get down from the tree, but his father teaches him how to use his special squirrel feet correctly so he will not fall. When the winter nest is too small and crowded, it comes time to build a brand new nest. With their family reunited, the squirrels gather up a decent supply of food, most of which comes from kind humans who’d left a variety of food out for birds and squirrels. Some humans, being mean-spirited, craft feeding devices which hurt and repel squirrels so that only small birds can feed. Squirrelly is so good at gathering food that he is well respected as a provider.
Both the story and the illustrations are so beautifully presented. The way Larry Friend has put the more difficult words (which may require some explaining to younger children) in italics, accompanied by a glossary of these words at the end of the book to aid in a child’s learning, is sheer genius. Detailing the annual life cycle of a squirrel, the educational value alone in Squirrelly the Squirrel and Starlett is priceless, as it shows the world through the eyes of a squirrel, starting from the moment they are born. The squirrel’s fears, dangers, and insecurities faced when first looking outside of the nest are cleverly presented, so as to make the young reader aware, without terrifying them as they learn. It is so important to teach children at a young age that animals are precious and can feel, both physically and emotionally. This knowledge brings about respect for wildlife, especially when the child is able to relate to what the animal is going through. I enjoyed Squirrelly the Squirrel and Starlett immensely and believe it would do well to be stocked in both city and school libraries. Ideally, this beautiful tale should be read to children during story time, whether at home or school, and will bring much delight to all readers, young and old.
