A beautiful picturebook that draws children's attention to squirrels, urging them to notice what they do and to recognize some relatable activities like work and play. I liked that visually there are many spreads aligned with the point of view of a squirrel, subtly nudging kids to recognize that the world looks different to different subjects. I also find it very important that the squirrels in this book are not some abstract, cartoonish idea of a squirrel but very recognizable grey squirrels that American kids might encounter in their city parks.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC.

First of all, the artwork in this children’s book is absolutely stunning—rich colors and beautifully detailed pages bring each scene to life. I especially love that the story centers around a squirrel, an animal many children can spot right outside their windows. There’s something so special about making the familiar feel magical, and this book does exactly that.

How fun would it be to read this story and then have your little one excitedly point out a squirrel in the yard or park? It’s a lovely way to blend storytelling with real-world discovery.

Thank you to NetGalley, Teacher Created Materials | Free Spirit Publishing, and Melina Mangal for the privilege of receiving this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Review for Squirrels Scamper by Melina Mangal
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)

Squirrels Scamper is an absolute delight! I loved the beautiful illustrations, the strong connection to nature, and the way children’s play and creativity are woven seamlessly into the story. The text is sweet, short, and straightforward—perfect for young listeners, with illustrations that are rich enough for even nonreaders to engage with and learn from.

One of my favorite parts was the thoughtful note to caregivers at the end. It offers practical tips to encourage community, adaptability, bonding, and social-emotional growth. It turns an already charming book into a truly meaningful resource.

This one’s a win for me—highly recommended for families, caregivers, and educators!

Thank you to NetGalley and Teacher Created Materials for the ARC.
#SquirrelsScamper #NetGalley

I was invited to read another book by Mélina Mangal — Squirrels Scamper, again beautifully illustrated by Stella Lim.
The same pair of children explores the outdoors, watching squirrels, playing in the leaves, and learning through observation. I might have enjoyed a small side story about a squirrel family, but overall, it's a gentle, nature-loving book that pairs nicely with Trees Stand Tall for any child’s bookshelf.

This is a wonderful book for beginning readers! The illustrations are beautiful and charming, and the language throughout is extremely simplistic and to the point. It’s the type of story that a child can read a few times and eventually be able to recite themselves. This book comes complete with a note to caregivers about embracing adaptability and “moving like a squirrel” with little ones. This is the perfect addition to any squirrel lover, nature lover, or curious little one’s library.

This was a sweet and simple children’s book! I think this book would be especially good for pre-k or younger kiddos. This would also be ideal for kids who love the outdoors, squirrels, or really any precious little animal. The illustrations throughout the story are ones that would capture and hold a child’s attention.

I really loved the section in the back of the book after the story about embracing adaptability and feel like that section is great to use with children of all ages. To be cognizant when you’re setting out with your kids and prep them beforehand on what we’ll be doing or where we’ll be going and to ask questions that flex their adaptability muscles is so great. It’s not only a great way to connect with our kids but it’s also a fabulous way to prepare them for the changes we often encounter in daily life.