Your typical odd-couple book, with some cute animals thrown in. The length and reading level will make it a good fit for ambitious young readers looking for titles that are longer and more sophisticated than some of the other beginning chapter books on the market, but the overall vibe seemed a little too old-fashioned to resonate with enough readers to find an audience in my library.

This is an adorable book for children. Each character – including the absent Aunt Lola – has a full personality that is dynamic and is explored throughout the text. Skunk is a highly curious character that asks a lot of questions and poses interesting topics such as using kindness versus violence to react to situations. Badger is a self-centered and insular character that learns how to have a roommate. The development of each character is exciting and could be a jumping off point to have conversations with kids about the interactions and decisions that drive each event. The relationship between these two is humorous and full of learning moments.

Timberlake brilliantly captures the contrast of these characters from the first moment we meet them. Although it is a bit trope-y, the grumpy Badger and the enthusiastic and bouncing Skunk makes for an amusing combination. Their differences are exhibited in so many ways, and this would be so fun to read to children because it shows how different people may react to each other and then learn from and benefit from each other. This is a classic way to present stories, and it is a classic for a reason – it is a great way to bring humour to a story for children.

This book explores first impressions, character change, opposites attract, and apologizing. I love how Badger slowly starts to open his eyes to the world around him even though his roommate is less than ideal (in his mind). The illustrations also bring extra magic and interest to the story. The sketches are brilliantly done in a way that adds so much life to the events of the book. Because of all of the teaching moments and the fully noticeable personalities from each of the characters, I give this book four out of four stars.

Skunk and Badger is the first book in a new children’s book series that was basically a warm hug in book form. It follows the titular characters, who appear to be total opposites at first. Skunk is energetic and easygoing where Badger is a pedantic, down-on-his-luck geologist who is living in his aunt’s brownstone while he’s looking for work. His aunt sends Skunk to be his roommate, and what follows is an unlikely, yet adorable friendship.

Let me just say that I can’t wait to share this book with my second graders. It will have to be a read-aloud for them as it’s a bit above their reading level, but I believe that readers all over the elementary school spectrum will enjoy this. For upper elementary, this would be a great independent reading or literature circle book. I love that the overarching theme in this book is friendship, and that it depicts Skunk and Badger learning how to look past their differences and get along–it’s perennial, positive, and applicable to real life.

Skunk and Badger is illustrated by beloved children’s book illustrator Jon Klassen, and his pencil illustrations make this book even more adorable (as if it weren’t already the cutest book ever). There are half and full-page illustrations sprinkled throughout, making it the perfect book for children who want something more text-heavy but still like pictures. Overall, I loved this sweet story and I hope my students will too!

This book was just fantastic, I loved the illustrations and I really enjoyed how it explains that just because there are differences between. You, doesn’t mean you can’t be friends.
Beautifully written and I am very excited for the rest of this series

Skunk and Badger begins with following the life of Badger. Badger has lived in his Aunt Lula’s brownstone for the last 3 years by himself. He enjoys living by himself because that means he has no one to distract him from his very Important Rock Work. The brownstone is every bit of Badger, as everything has it’s own place within the house and there’s no one to mess this up for Badger.

Then there comes an unexpected knock on the door. He knows it’s not Aunt Lula as it’s a day of Important Rock Work. He ignores the knock at the door, because he has Rock Work to do. However, when he hears his name being called out, he tries to ignore them too, but he gets concerned and goes to meet whoever is interrupting him from his Important Rock Work. In comes Skunk to change Badger’s life forever. Aunt Lula has invited Skunk to also live in the brownstone, which Badger has no idea of this plan because he is yet to read the latest three letters from Aunt Lula. Initially, things seemed to be going alright. Skunk cooks a grand breakfast feast and then after this feast, things start to go pear shape between the two. Skunk is always there and Badger struggles to manage living with someone else, especially Skunk. He writes back to Aunt Lula saying that this living arrangement cannot continue. Then the chickens arrive. This is the final straw for Badger and words are said between Badger and Skunk. Badger realises that he has said some terrible things and he needs to apologise.

This was easily one of the cutest and sweetest books I’ve ever read. I absolutely adored it so much! Both Skunk and Badger were adorable and lovable characters. They were such complete opposites but that was refreshing to read. Their types of characters isn’t a new concept – a grumpy character learning to live with the young and lively one, slowly becoming less grumpy and starts to see the joy in the world that they’ve been so unaware to for so long. Reading Badger’s shock at him having to do the cleaning after Skunk would do the cooking was such a wonderfully funny moment.

Both Skunk and Badger’s character development through the book warmed my heart. They both showed that the grumpy one can learn to accept when he likes living and being around someone else, and that the in your face one can learn personal boundaries. I think these kind of developments and learnings are important for the target MG audience to read about.

Chickens. Chickens were such a highlight of this book for me. That is one thing I didn’t expect to ever say about a book. This was such a lighthearted moment that was necessary for character development, which is such a shock.

The beautiful addition of the illustrations by Klassen were absolutely incredible. I loved them all so much! I truly wish there were more but the ones that were scattered throughout were such a beautiful visual description of certain scenes! I would have loved to see an illustration of the main scene with all the chickens from the town.

Such a beautiful read of two characters that seem like unlikely friends and how they overcame their differences to remain friends and roommates. Highly recommend Skunk and Badger, which was wonderfully aimed middle grade read to anyone who wants to read a lighthearted fun read! I can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy and also for book 2 in the series!

Thank you very much to the Algonquin Young Readers for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review and allowing me to participate in the blog tour.

As I turned the pages of this utterly charming story, I couldn’t help think what a delight it would have been to read aloud with the whole family. The animal characters – Badger the Rock Scientists and Skunk the unwelcome guest – would surely have captivated my children (who as grown women are equally susceptible), and the combination of direct language and nuanced relationships would draw in any parent wrestling with how to convey important lessons.

The story is simple on the surface: Badger’s hermit existence comes to a crashing halt when his Aunt Lula, owner of the brownstone in which he lives, also invites Skunk to move in. Skunk is not only irreverent to the Science of Rocks and friend and patron to many chickens, but quickly makes himself at home, plying Badger with home-cooked breakfasts as he gently but persistently confronts Badger with his prejudices and white lies.

In the end, Badger takes a fresh look at how he has isolated himself, ignored the feelings of others, and done harm to a potential best friend. One of the most profound changes was Badger’s new-found ability to admit he was wrong and to apologize sincerely by changing his behavior. We could all learn from his example!

Verdict: A book to read aloud with the whole family.

Kids will totally get why things might be hard for a skunk, but you may need to discuss why Badger is so set in his ways and unfriendly. And all those chickens are certainly random. Still, by the end, things are worked out and a really lovely friendship has been formed. Now that is out of the way I can't wait for their next adventure. Jon Klassen's illustrations are wonderful, like always.

This is an utterly adorable, amusing story of two unlikely friends. Badger, a rock scientist, lives on his own in his aunt's house, doing very important rock science; when Skunk shows up at his door, he's a little taken aback - he clearly hasn't been reading his aunt's letters, telling him he'll be getting a roommate! - and he reluctantly lets Skunk into his home, and, slowly but surely, his life. You see, Skunk is much more of a free spirit than Badger: he cooks delicious meals, zings potatoes across the room while he's cooking, and makes friends with chickens! Badger, who lives a functional and regimented life, is not sure about this whole Skunk business. After a big sleep over with the chickens leads to an incident where Skunk accidentally sprays Badger, the two have a falling and Skunk leaves; as he's sadly said before, "No one wants a skunk". Skunk's departure gets Badger thinking about what makes a good friend - and is determined to find Skunk and makes amends.


Newbery Honor author Amy Timberlake and Caldecott Medal Winner Jon Klassen create an enduring story of compassion, embracing differences, and friendship. Badger is a lovable curmudgeon, paired with idealist, extroverted Skunk - but Skunk knows all too well how he's perceived by others. When Badger loses his temper and calls him "vermin", Skunk draws the line between endearing grouchiness and unacceptable treatment. Jon Klassen's artwork fits perfectly with this sedate, sweet story; he gives memorable scenes life and makes this a book about friendship that kids will turn to again and again. You know what I'm going to say: Frog and Toad fans, this is the book for you. I can't wait to see what Skunk and Badger get up to next.


Skunk and Badger has starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, and Booklist.

The odd couple relationship gets a wonderfully needed makeover in Skunk & Badger (#1). Written by Amy Timberlake and illustrated by Jon Klassen, Skunk and Badger's relationship explores homelessness and prejudice in both overt and subtle ways, while also highlighting humor and individuality. This roughly 130 page, gorgeously illustrated title is perfect for family or classroom read-alouds, advanced young readers, or anyone looking for a short but impactful novel. The first in a planned series, this is a great choice for many.

This is a delightful, tongue-in-cheek readaloud book great for early elementary school students. While it has a very traditional feel (think the odd couple friendship of Frog and Toad) the story is longer and more cohesive without sacrificing any of the weirdness (where do those chickens come from? Why had Badger never noticed them before??). Jon Klassen's illustrations perfectly fit the tone. This is certainly one I could hand to library families with children of any age with no concerns for appropriateness. Overall, just a really enjoyable kids' read.

Badger lives in his aunt's house and is happy with his simple life. Cereal for breakfast and his routine.

His peace is disrupted one day when Skunk knocks on his door.

Skunk is much more extrovert than Badger and the two share delicious meals, and good and bad times. Their banter and conversation is realistic and sometimes happy and upbeat, other times tense.

Skunk and Badger is a wise tale about overcoming life's struggles, facing things head on and finding the good in strangers.

The beautiful illustrations make this a great book for children, whether they are read to or can read it themselves. It is first in a series and children are sure to enjoy it.

Now that I have finished it, I would like to review the rest of the books in this series once they are out.

Thanks to Amy Timberlake and Algonquin Books for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.

5 stars

Badger is (there's no other way to say it) set in his way and not at all interested in changing his routine...even if he comes to realize that it's not exactly bringing him a large measure of happiness. And it's Skunk that makes him realize this which is even more distressing. Skunk is sent to live with him at his aunt's request (it is her house after all) and from the outset it's clear that these two couldn't be more dissimilar. Skunk is spontaneous, sociable, and looking to please. Badger is taciturn, at times grumpy, and immovable. How can they every hope to have a harmonious relationship or even a cordial living situation. Through a series of vignettes with delightful illustrations accompanying them, Timberlake unfolds this most unusual pairing. Best way to describe this would be to equate it to The Odd Couple but instead of two middle aged white men it's a badger and skunk. (I defy you to spot the difference.) This is a good option for those young readers who are setting out to master chapter books and would make a good bedtime book to read together with an adult with each of them taking turns reading a page.

When Badger, dedicated rock-scientist, opens his front door to find a skunk, grinning and holding a suitcase, he is less than pleased. When Skunk moves in and begins to shake up Badger's carefully planned days and turns perfectly organized house upside down, he can barely contain his irritation. When Skunk's own passion turns out to be caring for a hundred or more chickens...well, what's a Badger to do?

I loved this gently funny story of an animal odd-couple who grow and learn from each other and can't wait to recommend it to young readers.

Skunk and Badger, by Amy Timberlake, pictures by Jon Klassen (of I Want My Hat Back), is a chapter book geared at readers from grades 2-5. I think it would be a really fun read aloud story for kids younger than that also, and also for everyone else because books are for everybody and this is a gem.

This book starts by introducing us to Badger, who likes rocks and everything in its right place. His life is turned around on page one, when Skunk shows up as a new roommate that Badger was not expecting to have!

Adventures, chaos, disruption, conversation, understanding, goofs, and friendship ensue and it is an absolute treat to read.

I adore the writing style, that is at once clear and concise and witty, while also perfectly descriptive. As a short beginner chapter book the story flows quickly, and is broken up well. It is full of banter, inner dialogue where sometimes Badger gets a bit sassy, and clever expressive dialogue that younger readers will understand and laugh about, and older readers and grown ups will really enjoy.

Here’s a snippet I particularly loved in the first chapter,

“The red suitcase would be popped open to reveal something guaranteed to change everything.”

Can you even? I love it. Such intrigue. Great stuff. Clearly there is fun to be had.

I don’t want to give away what happens after that. It’s a charming unexpected adventure that you will not be able to predict. It gave me Frog and Toad vibes, with a smidge of Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox style. Great combination.

The illustrations are perfect. There’s not a lot of them, but they give exactly the right tone for these characters. I really hope we get to have more adventures with them before too much longer. Those of you who recognize Jon Klassen from his picture book, I Want My Hat Back, will be delighted to see that the sharp cleverness of that book and his style is also present in Skunk and Badger.

This is a great book and would be a perfect addition to any reader’s library. I grinned the whole time and have a big soft spot for the grumpy badger who finds room in his crusty little heart filled with rocks for a new friend.

It’s absolutely delightful and so charming. I hope you go get it.

(BLOG TOUR SPOTLIGHT!)
Prose (Story): The Odd Couple meets Winnie the Pooh when an uptight, workaholic badger, whose life revolves around being a Rock Scientist and being left alone, has his life and home upended when he's forced to take in a roommate ... the sociable, talkative, friendly, chicken-loving(!) Skunk.

Don's (Review): Badger lives in a big, two-story brownstone rent-free courtesy of his Aunt Lula, who owns the building. He lives alone and spends his days doing his important Rock Science work, eating the same cereal every day, his life one of orderliness and quiet. That is, until he ignores a few of Aunt Lula's letters letting him know she's also okayed the outgoing, boisterous, very social Skunk to share the brownstone with him, which Badger has no clue about until the affable Skunk shows up at his door, suitcase in hand. Left with no choice, the duo become roommates, Skunk soon getting on every one of Badger's nerves, even as he also introduces the staid Badger to things like a hot, homemade breakfast ... and chickens. Many, many chickens. Award-winning author Amy Timberlake has fashioned a sweet, funny story about tolerance and friendship, creating two very different characters readers of all ages will grow to love and root for, even as they sort of get on each other's nerves. Having read an advanced copy, my only caveat to the book was I was hoping for more of Jon Klassen's beautifully-rendered, Pooh-like black-and-white and color artwork throughout, but have since learned that readers buying the hardbound version of the finished novel will indeed be treated to a beautifully-bound copy with amazing art under the book jacket, and even more full-color plates and black-and-white illustrations inside - so you can bet I will be getting mine, as the artwork is fabulous, fitting the story to perfection. Timberlake has really done a masterful job of creating two main characters who at times are both easy to understand, while at times you can also see how each could be frustrating to the other's lifestyle - much like the real world, where you take people (and animals) as you find them, adapting yourself to their pluses and minuses and accepting them for who they are, if they are to be part of your world. And when things come to a head and Skunk moves out after a very unfortunate - and smelly - accident, by then as a reader you're so invested in these two wonderful aimals, you hope that acceptance is a lesson the normally stodgy, disagreeable Badger will learn, as well. 4.5/5 stars

NOTE: I received a free ARC of this title from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.

A very cute and fun read that would be total delight for young listeners. Skunk and Badger is story of budding friendship and how true friends don't necessarily need be your type.
I loved the book and look forward to the next installment in the series.

A MUST READ! Like legitimately, drop everything and pick up this most charming, adorable, offbeat little book. This is my top recommendation to literally anyone and any age for 2020.


Badger lives alone in Aunt Lula’s home where he, a rock scientist, spends his days focused on Important Rock Work. He’s so focused on his rocks, in fact, that he hasn’t been reading his aunt’s letters. So when Skunk shows up on his doorstep one day, he’s in for quite a surprise. Aunt Lula had offered Skunk a room in her brownstone as well, certain he and Badger would become great friends. Badger, though, is a very particular kind of guy, set in his ways and well, not everyone wants a skunk. So how will these two make do? And what is up with all the chickens? Where are they coming from?

Described by the publisher as Wallace and Grommit meets Winnie-the-Pooh, Skunk & Badger is absolutely THE must read kids book of the year! The illustrations are gorgeous and combined with the story make for a nostalgic feel, like the best books passed down through generations. Reading it gave me that delicious cozy feeling and I found it almost hard to believe that Skunk & Badger was new and hadn’t been part of my childhood along with Frog and Toad or Charlotte’s Web. This is a modern classic, if ever there was one.

And oh, the writing! It’s a treat! Badger is very set in his ways and perhaps a hair or three grumpy, at least when it comes to changing his routine or interrupting his Important Rock Work. Skunk is a kind little fellow, used to working extra hard to make people like him but also quite lively. He even bounces. I could see parts of myself as both a child and adult in each of them. Chances are you, too, are a little bit Badger and a little bit Skunk.

In just 11 chapters and 136 pages, author Amy Timberlake strikes the perfect cord with just enough action and colorful, fun phrasing. There are lots of sound effects, written in italics that could make for an interactive and especially lively read aloud experience. There are puns and funny little jokes that adult readers will enjoy as well. I’m still giggling about the chicken chapter and mention of a “coop d’etat”. And oh, the chickens! You’ll learn some interesting things about chickens. And rocks- lots of little tidbits about rocks & minerals. Then, as with all classic children’s books comes the lesson (or maybe several), one of not judging or stereotyping and learning to compromise and get along with others, that being open to others and a bit of a shakeup in one’s routine can lead to the best surprises, or that maybe it’s worth getting to know the folks other brush aside. And there’s nothing heavy-handed in the imparting of these lessons. This is truly a perfectly on point book in every way. Best of all, this is the first of a series and I can’t wait to read more Skunk & Badger adventures!

So charming, funny, whimsical, and downright delightful, Skunk & Badger is a must read for all ages! Even if you don’t have kids or haven’t read a children’s book in decades, pick this one up. In this year especially, we could all use some Skunk & Badger in our lives!

With adorable illustrations by Jon Klasson, Amy Timberlake's Skunk and Badger is a lovely story of friendship, sharing and compromise. I was drawn in by a connection with Badger, a curmudgeonly rock scientist living in his Aunt Lula's den surrounded by geodes and a rock tumbler, doing very important rock work (sounds pretty awesome). Badger doesn't have much besides rocks and his work, but he doesn't realize life has more to offer until Skunk comes knocking on his door, suitcase in hand.

Seems Aunt Lula has also offered Skunk a room in her brownstone, though Badger has been too busy doing his important rock work to read her last several letters. Badger is put out by Skunk's presence, initially trying to pass off a closet as the luxury guest quarters. He soon finds life with Skunk isn't all bad, particularly at mealtimes (breakfast hot chocolate!).

Of course not all goes smoothly and soon Badger is surrounded not only by Skunk, but hundreds of chickens (because that's what happens when you blow the chicken whistle), a treacherous stoat and some odors that are not as wonderful as breakfast hot chocolate.

I adored the drawings interspersed throughout the book, particularly Skunk reading under the covers of his room in the moonlight. Although there are certain conflicts between species (stoats and chickens apparently can't bridge the gap, for instance), there is never any discussion about inter-species relationships. Aunt Lula, for instance, is a pine marten. There is just family and friends and roommates and some natural enemies, language barriers be damned. Also, CHICKENS IN BELL-BOTTOMS.

Geared for grades 2-5, which I am decidedly not, Skunk and Badger is a worthy tale for all ages. Timberlake is a Newbery Honor recipient and Klassen a Caldecott Medalist, coming together to show how we can all be better together.

Thanks @algonquinyr for the gifted copy! // This book is what my heart needs right now. It's a sweet story about friendship that really got me right in the heart. I can be a grumpy little thing just like Badger is and this book reminded me to try to look on the brightside of things. Don't be fooled! This book may be aimed at kids but it got this thirtysomething all in her feelings. I loved it!

Badger is a rock scientist doing very important rock work. He likes order and routine and he absolutely does not like the idea of sharing his house with anyone, which is exactly what happens when Skunk turns up after being invited in by their landlady. Skunk is very different from Badger, he is very energetic and does not know anything about rocks and mayhem just seems to follow him (and chickens).
I don't like calling books the next this or the next that, so I won't. But I believe that Skunk and Badger are joining the ranks of classic loveable animal based stories, like Peter Rabbit, Frog and Toad and the Wind in the Willows.
There is something cozy and comforting about these animal odd-couples and I am already ready to read more of them overcoming their differences and having candlelight breakfast (something I ought to try too).
It also stands that this is a book for all ages - gift it to your little cousin or read it yourself in your dorm room at university (what wouldn't I do for scientific funding and a nice little house where I can do my academic studies!).
I'm leaving you with the quote from the book that just about made me cry:
“Yes,‘hope’ seems right to me. Gentle and kind is the way I would like the world to be. I hope it will be that way."