In the dynamic, thought-provoking Squirrel and Bird by Laura Baker (Monsters Everywhere series), illustrated by Stacey Thomas (The Inventor's Workshop), an increasingly irritated Bird chafes at being typecast by a narrator's narrow interpretation.
A narrator states, in no uncertain terms, that Squirrel is so loud, "you can hear Squirrel from anywhere." And Bird "hardly makes a sound at all." Squirrel is "busy, busy, busy," while Bird "prefers to sit and do nothing." Frustrated, Bird tries to explain otherwise but is repeatedly ignored by the adamant narrator. The two friends are preparing for a concert: gathering instruments, sheet music, and inviting all the animals in the forest to attend. When the stubborn narrator decides that perhaps Squirrel, who is "oh-so-easy-breezy," should perform alone because Bird is "freaking out," Bird finally shouts "ENOUGH!" Bird vehemently insists that there is "so much more" to each of them, and now that Bird has spoken up, the narrator agrees. Bird is a lot of things, most notably a thinker and a performer, while Squirrel can be loud, excitable, and shy. With the narrator duly chastised, Squirrel and Bird can begin their story all over again. And, this time, they will tell it their way!
Baker's irresistible tale playfully demonstrates the downside of making assumptions and judgements. The entertaining text is thoughtful and full of energy, with Bird actively breaking the fourth wall. Delicate, predominantly yellow and gray illustrations cleverly contradict the narrator, showcasing the true nature of Bird's contributions and highlighting the multifaceted personalities of both endearing characters. Squirrel and Bird may appear lighthearted, but it packs an undeniable wallop of wisdom. --Lynn Becker, reviewer, blogger, and children's book author