Stikki the Squirrel

Tree Spirits

Children - Animals
240 Pages
Reviewed on 06/16/2026
Buy on Amazon

Author Biography

My name is Jane H. Wood. I am an international award-winning author, who enjoys writing stories for children and young adults. My wonderful animal adventure books have captivated readers of all ages, earning acclaim for vivid storytelling and enchanting illustrations that feature in my Stikki the Squirrel books.

I live on the south coast of England, in a little town called Worthing. I am a wife, a mother, and a proud grandmother. In my spare time I like to create imaginative stories. I have four published books to date: two young adult adventure books, and more recently, two self-illustrated animal adventure fiction books for middle grade readers.

The inspiration for my first children’s book in the Stikki the Squirrel series, happened quite unexpectedly! It was on the day a family of grey squirrels entered our garden. Observing their playful interactions turned out to be not only entertaining to watch but informative as well. And so, a story about a cute, slightly scatty, squirrel family materialised in my mind.

Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits, book two, continues the series.

My books feature strong, likable animal characters, with engaging easy-to-follow plots. Children will learn about the importance of family, making friends, and teamwork from this wonderful magical story with animals as the main characters.

A fun filled exciting adventure set in a snowy mid-winter woodland.
My books carry a subtle message about protecting nature and all her wildlife.

    Book Review

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits is a children's book by Jane H. Wood. It's been a harsh winter for Stikki the Squirrel and his family. In fact, all the animals in the woodland have been affected by the cold and snow. Stikki leaves his mate Rella and their four kits to retrieve his hidden stash of food, only to run into a couple of predatory foxes. Rella follows Stikki's trail and finds him, but the foxes haven't given up yet. After falling into the river, Stikki and Rella are unexpectedly rescued by two "longlegs". Meanwhile, the kits are searching for their parents, led by the eldest, Fluffer. Can Fluffer and his siblings get to their parents before the foxes? And how long will the winter last?

Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits is a cozy adventure for young readers. Children will learn about the importance of family, friendship, and teamwork from this captivating tale with animals as main characters. They will also be thoroughly entertained. I know I was even as an older reader. The plot is absorbing and the characters immensely likable. Jane H. Wood paces the narrative in a way that gives time for readers to get to know the characters in-depth and immerse themselves in the setting of the woodland. There are so many interesting characters, including Stikki, Rella, their kits, Sophie and her family, Craw, Brodboar, and many more. Their distinct personality traits let each of them leave their mark on the reader. I also liked the ending. It's optimistic and full of hope. Children are going to love this book.

book.lover1486

Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits is Book two in the series and follows the journey of Stikki and his family trying to survive a harsh winter in the Hazy Hills Woods.

This is such an incredible read that is full of adventure and warmth. The illustrations in this book are beautifully done and really bring the story alive while reading.
Me and the girls thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more by Jane H. Wood.

A Highly Recommended Read.

S.S. Saywack

Occasionally, you come across a really charming children's book that harks back to those of your youth. Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits is one such. Book two of the series, and a harsh winter threatens the forest's animals as food is terribly short, and Stikki goes on a hunt for some to feed himself, his mate and his children. Plenty of adventure follows, from being attacked by foxes to near-death drowning, to being captured by humans and attacked by a jealous cat.

It's difficult not to like this book and its host of characters. A splendid adventure and a really good children's read, deservedly so for this well-written book. Also, a series of lovely illustrations accompanies the text.

Victoria Crosby

Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits by Jane H. Wood is a delightful story for the whole family. I enjoyed seeing the character Stikki go from a young squirrel in the first book to a father and mate in this family-oriented action story for kids. The adventure that Stikki goes on foraging for food turns into a quest to find the way back home, facing danger and unexpected friends.
The author cleverly shows life and priorities from a squirrel's perspective on everything from birds, foxes, to even humans. The wrap up at the end hints at more adventures to come for Stikki, Rella, and the squirrel children!
Enjoyable from start to finish.

Paige Moulton

Stikki the squirrel: Tree Spirits by jane H. Wood is a middle grade fantasy adventure that blends woodland survival, magical mystery, and animal companionship into a warm yet suspenseful narrative set in the enchanting Hazy Hills Wood.
One of the strongest elements of the book is its immersive forest setting. The winter landscape, with its scarcity of food and growing danger. creates a natural sense of urgency that drives the story forward while grounding the magical elements in a tangible environment.

Stikki and Rella's relationship provides the emotional centre of the narrative. Their bond adds warmth and continuity to the unfolding mystery, making their journey feel personal even as larger threats emerge within the woodland ecosystem.
The introduction of a "food thief" and the mysterious forces surrounding the sacred ash tree adds a layer of intrigue the keeps the story engaging. The balance between natural animal instincts and magical undertones gives the book a distinctive fantasy identity.

Another notable strength is the sense of community among the woodland creatures. As danger increases, the story emphasizes cooperation, survival, and trust, reinforcing themes of unity in the face of uncertainty.

For readers who enjoy animal fantasy, magical woodland adventures, and heart-warming survival stories, Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits offers an engaging and atmospheric reading experience.

D. G. Torrens

I have all the books in this wonderful series. If I could give this book more stars I would. Rella and Stikki find themselves in a rather difficult situation, tough winter, where all animals are struggling... The winter is unforgiving and tests their strengths and weaknesses. We are introduced to a new character called Sophie, kind and caring. The woodland creatures call humans longlegs! I loved this term, as I could imagine being a tiny animal myself and looking up through their eyes. Brodboar is another wonderful character, a badger that shows up in this wonderfully written story. I highly recommend this amazing book.

Helen Huber

Stikki and Rella return for another adventure in this sweet children's story. In the depths of a harder-than-usual winter, the pair and their kits are facing adversity, along with other animals who share their woodland home. Brodboar the badger and other characters from book 1 are joined by some new faces, including Sophie, a human girl who shows Stikki that not all 'longlegs' are bad. I particularly enjoyed the scenes in her home. The titular tree spirits add a touch of mystery to a tale that emphasises the importance of family and friends. Though Stikki makes a new enemy, all's well that ends well, but I have a feeling this isn't the last we'll hear from the delightful squirrel. Like the first book, this one contains cute illustrations drawn by the author, which are sure to enchant young readers.