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Scaredy's Nutty Adventures #1
Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell
The time is now for this anxious little guy: Meet Scaredy Squirrel in his brand-new graphic novel series! He's funnier (and scared-ier) than ever, and perfect for readers of Narwhal and Jelly.
Scaredy is happy to stay in his nut tree. Why would he ever leave? The outside is filled with dangers. Like aliens! And dust! And a certain fluffy bunny who likes to pop up! But things don't always go as planned, even for a super-prepared squirrel. When he has to venture out of his tree and onto the ground, Scaredy panics and plays dead . . . but maybe the fluffy bunny's not so scary after all?
In a nutshell, Scaredy might just make a new friend, if he is brave enough. . . .
Scaredy is happy to stay in his nut tree. Why would he ever leave? The outside is filled with dangers. Like aliens! And dust! And a certain fluffy bunny who likes to pop up! But things don't always go as planned, even for a super-prepared squirrel. When he has to venture out of his tree and onto the ground, Scaredy panics and plays dead . . . but maybe the fluffy bunny's not so scary after all?
In a nutshell, Scaredy might just make a new friend, if he is brave enough. . . .
72 pages, Hardcover
First published May 25, 2021
19 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
Mélanie Watt
48books294followersIt was in a design class taught by Michèle Lemieux at the University of Quebec in Montreal that author and illustrator Mélanie Watt created her first picture book, Leon the Chameleon, which was later published by Kids Can Press. Watt went on to create several more books, including the Learning with Animals collection and Augustine, which was named an ALA Notable Children's Book. Watt has also illustrated Where Does a Tiger-Heron Spend the Night? and Bearcub and Mama, which won the 2006 IRA Teachers' Choices Project.
Mélanie's best known book Scaredy Squirrel, has won many awards including the Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Award for Children's Picture Book and the Amelia Frances Howard-Gibbon Illustrator's Award. The release of Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend, was met with enthusiastic reviews and incredible sales, confirming the arrival of kid lit's newest superstar.
Chester,Chester's Back! and Chester's Masterpiece are about a megalomaniac cat who is every bit the antithesis to Scaredy. Chester has already become a bestseller and shows the breadth and creativity of Mélanie Watt.
Scaredy returns to take a few more tentative steps out of his comfort zone in Scaredy Squirrel at the Beach and Scaredy Squirrel at Night. Mélanie has often noted how the Scaredy Squirrel books helped her work out her own insecurities and fears, as the success of these titles has required her to venture out into the unknown, and like Scaredy she has found the experience truly uplifting.
Mélanie currently resides near Montreal, Quebec.
~From
Mélanie's best known book Scaredy Squirrel, has won many awards including the Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Award for Children's Picture Book and the Amelia Frances Howard-Gibbon Illustrator's Award. The release of Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend, was met with enthusiastic reviews and incredible sales, confirming the arrival of kid lit's newest superstar.
Chester,Chester's Back! and Chester's Masterpiece are about a megalomaniac cat who is every bit the antithesis to Scaredy. Chester has already become a bestseller and shows the breadth and creativity of Mélanie Watt.
Scaredy returns to take a few more tentative steps out of his comfort zone in Scaredy Squirrel at the Beach and Scaredy Squirrel at Night. Mélanie has often noted how the Scaredy Squirrel books helped her work out her own insecurities and fears, as the success of these titles has required her to venture out into the unknown, and like Scaredy she has found the experience truly uplifting.
Mélanie currently resides near Montreal, Quebec.
~From
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
November 16, 2023
In my family, the Scaredy Squirrel picture books have been in regular bedtime reading rotation pretty much ever since the first one was published in 2006. I was surprised to discover that new titles featuring the character have appeared recently, but in "graphic novel" format. I was a bit hesitant to try them, because I couldn't imagine a dialogue heavy Scaredy Squirrel with speech bubbles.
But I gave the first "Nutty Adventures" book a try with my son anyway, and discovered that it's basically the same concept as the SOS (Scaredy Orville Squirrel) picture books, but redesigned in a different shape of book (portrait as opposed to landscape) that gives it a look of being for older independently reading kids. Clever! It's also divided into very short "chapters" in the manner of early readers.
The quality of the story isn't up to the level of the picture books -- the lists and diagrams aren't quite as detailed and funny -- and towards the end of the last chapter Scaredy and (spoiler alert!) his new friend Ivy do have a speech bubble conversation, which indeed, gave the book a bit of a different feel from classic SOS, but I'm not complaining too much; more Scaredy is always a good thing.
But I gave the first "Nutty Adventures" book a try with my son anyway, and discovered that it's basically the same concept as the SOS (Scaredy Orville Squirrel) picture books, but redesigned in a different shape of book (portrait as opposed to landscape) that gives it a look of being for older independently reading kids. Clever! It's also divided into very short "chapters" in the manner of early readers.
The quality of the story isn't up to the level of the picture books -- the lists and diagrams aren't quite as detailed and funny -- and towards the end of the last chapter Scaredy and (spoiler alert!) his new friend Ivy do have a speech bubble conversation, which indeed, gave the book a bit of a different feel from classic SOS, but I'm not complaining too much; more Scaredy is always a good thing.
November 18, 2021
Featured in a grandma reads session.
Scaredy S. has become a great favorite of all of my group - even the olders, which surprised me at first, but upon further consideration the reason is revealed. Scaredy is scared of change, as 99% of us are, and because of that, Scaredy has a multiplicity of plans to control and assuage his fear and horror at all aspects that threaten to go out of his allowed bounds. In all situations, for all of us, that is the wonder - even promise - of life. The author is a genius - you may think she writes to the hearts of children, and she does! That within all human hearts is a child's heart of some kind, lurking in some mode of readiness.
Too many words, one of my group would say (he likes the fewest words in communication). The vote taken resulted in 4 stars!
Scaredy S. has become a great favorite of all of my group - even the olders, which surprised me at first, but upon further consideration the reason is revealed. Scaredy is scared of change, as 99% of us are, and because of that, Scaredy has a multiplicity of plans to control and assuage his fear and horror at all aspects that threaten to go out of his allowed bounds. In all situations, for all of us, that is the wonder - even promise - of life. The author is a genius - you may think she writes to the hearts of children, and she does! That within all human hearts is a child's heart of some kind, lurking in some mode of readiness.
Too many words, one of my group would say (he likes the fewest words in communication). The vote taken resulted in 4 stars!
August 20, 2024
Scaredy Squirrel decides to vacuum his tree and its immediate surroundings, and ends up meeting Ivy, a friendly white rabbit. After much deliberation, and planning (of course!) Scaredy agrees to split a pizza with her. They find scary anchovies on the pizza, and realize that though they don't share other fears, they do have this fear in common. And Scaredy gets to meet a friend of Ivy's, the beaver Timber.
Another silly and sweet story, and a good step forward for Scaredy, opening up a little and sharing his tree with a new friend.
Another silly and sweet story, and a good step forward for Scaredy, opening up a little and sharing his tree with a new friend.
May 20, 2021
Such a cute little graphic novel!
I loved Scaredy Squirrel growing up and this is a great beginner graphic novel for reluctant or struggling readers or those who are getting older and still enjoy the Scaredy Squirrel world. This book centers around Scaredy's fear of germs and a reluctance to go outside of his home, which will make this book super relatable for a lot of children as we transition back to "normal," pre-pandemic life. This would be great for any kiddos worried about that transition back to the world, whether it's due to germ-related or social anxiety.
Thank you Netgalley for the early copy! This is definitely one to get on your summer reading lists and in your library in time for summer reading programs!
I loved Scaredy Squirrel growing up and this is a great beginner graphic novel for reluctant or struggling readers or those who are getting older and still enjoy the Scaredy Squirrel world. This book centers around Scaredy's fear of germs and a reluctance to go outside of his home, which will make this book super relatable for a lot of children as we transition back to "normal," pre-pandemic life. This would be great for any kiddos worried about that transition back to the world, whether it's due to germ-related or social anxiety.
Thank you Netgalley for the early copy! This is definitely one to get on your summer reading lists and in your library in time for summer reading programs!
May 27, 2021
The latest in the hit series by one of my favourite Canadian children's authors. I can't wait to read it to my preschool class.
June 17, 2021
I enjoyed discovering the Scaredy Squirrel picture books when I first started working at the library, so I was interested in reading this graphic novel, which moves the character into books for a different age range while still capturing familiar elements of the storytelling style. This book will be a good option for reluctant readers, and for children who are aging into chapter books and have an existing appreciation for the character.
The story is simple and not a lot happens, and the book mainly revolves around explaining the main character's anxieties, but children will enjoy the humorous details and cute drawings, and Scaredy Squirrel's fear of germs and struggle with social anxiety will be relatable to many children, especially as society begins to adjust to regular life routines again after the pandemic's disruption. However, nothing about this story is specific to COVID-19. It may meet an especially broad audience right now, but can continue to appeal over future years as a fun book about a memorable character, and a story that will help anxious kids feel understood and also laugh at anxiety a little bit.
I will look forward to future installments in this graphic novel series, and it will appeal to kids who have enjoyed series like Narwhal and Jelly, and are looking for other simple, easy-to-read graphic novels with animal characters.
I received a temporary digital copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story is simple and not a lot happens, and the book mainly revolves around explaining the main character's anxieties, but children will enjoy the humorous details and cute drawings, and Scaredy Squirrel's fear of germs and struggle with social anxiety will be relatable to many children, especially as society begins to adjust to regular life routines again after the pandemic's disruption. However, nothing about this story is specific to COVID-19. It may meet an especially broad audience right now, but can continue to appeal over future years as a fun book about a memorable character, and a story that will help anxious kids feel understood and also laugh at anxiety a little bit.
I will look forward to future installments in this graphic novel series, and it will appeal to kids who have enjoyed series like Narwhal and Jelly, and are looking for other simple, easy-to-read graphic novels with animal characters.
I received a temporary digital copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. It will be released May 25, 2021 by Tundra Books.
This graphic novel chapter book is preposterous, hilarious, and full on fun. If you haven't heard of Scaredy Squirrel, the world's most famous atypical squirrel, you must have been hiding under a rock, or maybe a nut.
Scaredy is called Scaredy for a reason. If something exists, this squirrel will find some way to worry about it. Yet at the same time as Scaredy is full of anxiety, the little rodent is also ingenious, creative and an expert risk calculator. If all else fails, there is always the play dead option.
The prologue consists of a covid type security quiz. (Also, the end papers are of rolls of toilet paper.) You must achieve a score of 1 - 5 to proceed. I think it's impossible to fail, but you never know. What dire things might happen if you continue?
Chapter one finds Scaredy in his tree. He worries about aliens, mammoths, lumberjacks, woodpeckers, cats and termites. At the same time, he has stratagems for dealing with each of these eventualities. The only problem with these safeguards is that they collect dust. So every once in a while our little critter has to don his dust fighting outfit, drag out his vacuum cleaner, and clean off the safety equipment. Even if the hose gets clogged, Scaredy has a plan.
Unfortunately, this time, he sets of a series of events that lead to an unforeseen disaster and Scaredy playing dead.
Chapter two finds our friendly rodent hungry. The previous disaster knocked all the nuts off the tree. Terrible dangers await him if he decides to leave his tree and pick some up. Rocks, puddles, cacti and other hazards wait for an unsuspecting squirrel. Scaredy decides to order takeout instead. There are just so many choices.
When his pizza arrives, Scaredy he puts on his ground level get up. Just when he is about to grab a slice, an unexpected event startles him. He scrambles to safety and once again, plays dead.
In the final chapter Scaredy has to figure out if it is worthwhile taking risks to make a new friend.
Will he end up playing dead again?
I liked so much about this book. I adore Watt's illustrations. I like the puns and slapstick humour. At one point Scaredy wonders, "Ivy might be poisonous! (name makes me itchy.)" I like that Scaredy Squirrel playfully models how to cope for kids with similar neuroses. I like that he shows the rest of us what living with these anxieties is like. I like that Ivy, and maybe even Timber, accept him just as he is.
I'll be looking forward to the next in this new series.
Preorder this for your libraries. Make it two or three copies. Young readers are going to love it. So will their big people.
This graphic novel chapter book is preposterous, hilarious, and full on fun. If you haven't heard of Scaredy Squirrel, the world's most famous atypical squirrel, you must have been hiding under a rock, or maybe a nut.
Scaredy is called Scaredy for a reason. If something exists, this squirrel will find some way to worry about it. Yet at the same time as Scaredy is full of anxiety, the little rodent is also ingenious, creative and an expert risk calculator. If all else fails, there is always the play dead option.
The prologue consists of a covid type security quiz. (Also, the end papers are of rolls of toilet paper.) You must achieve a score of 1 - 5 to proceed. I think it's impossible to fail, but you never know. What dire things might happen if you continue?
Chapter one finds Scaredy in his tree. He worries about aliens, mammoths, lumberjacks, woodpeckers, cats and termites. At the same time, he has stratagems for dealing with each of these eventualities. The only problem with these safeguards is that they collect dust. So every once in a while our little critter has to don his dust fighting outfit, drag out his vacuum cleaner, and clean off the safety equipment. Even if the hose gets clogged, Scaredy has a plan.
Unfortunately, this time, he sets of a series of events that lead to an unforeseen disaster and Scaredy playing dead.
Chapter two finds our friendly rodent hungry. The previous disaster knocked all the nuts off the tree. Terrible dangers await him if he decides to leave his tree and pick some up. Rocks, puddles, cacti and other hazards wait for an unsuspecting squirrel. Scaredy decides to order takeout instead. There are just so many choices.
When his pizza arrives, Scaredy he puts on his ground level get up. Just when he is about to grab a slice, an unexpected event startles him. He scrambles to safety and once again, plays dead.
In the final chapter Scaredy has to figure out if it is worthwhile taking risks to make a new friend.
Will he end up playing dead again?
I liked so much about this book. I adore Watt's illustrations. I like the puns and slapstick humour. At one point Scaredy wonders, "Ivy might be poisonous! (name makes me itchy.)" I like that Scaredy Squirrel playfully models how to cope for kids with similar neuroses. I like that he shows the rest of us what living with these anxieties is like. I like that Ivy, and maybe even Timber, accept him just as he is.
I'll be looking forward to the next in this new series.
Preorder this for your libraries. Make it two or three copies. Young readers are going to love it. So will their big people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2021
Scaredy Squirrel brings fear and "what-if's" to tree-height. His fears are based on instinct, but so completely out of touch with reality, that it may be physically impossible to not laugh.
Scaredy and I had not met prior to this chapter book, so it took a little while to get acquainted.
I'm not judging, but I happened to open the ebook in a particular room of the house. And who would have guessed? On the first page, Scaredy insists that the book not be read in that room! (True story!)
So we may not have begun well, but I aced the Reader Security Quiz. (Except for number 5. Come on! This was a cold read!)
If the artwork in a book is important to you--and it is to me--I thought you might want to know. I consider myself an great judge of illustrations because I have a great artistic eye and excellent taste. So I can say with authority that these drawings are a-dor-a-ble! Adorable! As in, so funny and cute! Even the termites, who appear a bit scary and angry, are cute enough you might want them on a t-shirt.
Again, not judging, but Scaredy has a cheesy grin. I like it! His problem solving skills are...iffy. His logic is...well...If you know any germs named Gary, don't let them read this book without a friend. I think Scaredy may have had a bad experience in the past.
Aside from some confusion and misconceptions, I think Scaredy is extremely fun and entertaining. He has adventures I would never dream of. That's pretty amazing if you think about it! There is also a little known fact: You can always tell how fun someone will be by the way the person screams. And Scaredy doesn't just scream (so funny!), he plays dead in the tree!
I could read this book over and over, and still laugh! I have honestly never met such a funny squirrel. And I know we're going to be good friends forever!
This book will appeal to people and critters of all ages, and I highly recommend it.
5/5 Stars
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the preview copy!
#ScaredySquirrelinaNutshell #NetGalley
Scaredy and I had not met prior to this chapter book, so it took a little while to get acquainted.
I'm not judging, but I happened to open the ebook in a particular room of the house. And who would have guessed? On the first page, Scaredy insists that the book not be read in that room! (True story!)
So we may not have begun well, but I aced the Reader Security Quiz. (Except for number 5. Come on! This was a cold read!)
If the artwork in a book is important to you--and it is to me--I thought you might want to know. I consider myself an great judge of illustrations because I have a great artistic eye and excellent taste. So I can say with authority that these drawings are a-dor-a-ble! Adorable! As in, so funny and cute! Even the termites, who appear a bit scary and angry, are cute enough you might want them on a t-shirt.
Again, not judging, but Scaredy has a cheesy grin. I like it! His problem solving skills are...iffy. His logic is...well...If you know any germs named Gary, don't let them read this book without a friend. I think Scaredy may have had a bad experience in the past.
Aside from some confusion and misconceptions, I think Scaredy is extremely fun and entertaining. He has adventures I would never dream of. That's pretty amazing if you think about it! There is also a little known fact: You can always tell how fun someone will be by the way the person screams. And Scaredy doesn't just scream (so funny!), he plays dead in the tree!
I could read this book over and over, and still laugh! I have honestly never met such a funny squirrel. And I know we're going to be good friends forever!
This book will appeal to people and critters of all ages, and I highly recommend it.
5/5 Stars
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the preview copy!
#ScaredySquirrelinaNutshell #NetGalley
June 4, 2021
Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell by Melanie Watt takes a beloved picturebook character (one of my favorites to be honest) and lets him branch (ha!) into a new graphic novel series. It is currently scheduled for release on June 15 2021.
Scaredy is happy to stay in his nut tree. Why would he ever leave? The outside is filled with dangers. Like aliens! And dust! And a certain fluffy bunny who likes to pop up! But things don't always go as planned, even for a super-prepared squirrel. When he has to venture out of his tree and onto the ground, Scaredy panics and plays dead but maybe the fluffy bunny's not so scary after all? In a nutshell, Scaredy might just make a new friend, if he is brave enough.
Fans of Scaredy Squirrel will be gratified to see this collection of stories featuring or risk adverse friend, and newcomers will get a thorough introduction to the joy of his antics. Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell is not really anything new or surprising for those of us that loved the picturebooks- Scaredy is still scared of just about everything and makes some interesting choices to keep everything clean and safe. However, like with most long time favorites, a new twist is not necessarily what readers are looking for. The book looks just like I expect, with the same charming illustrations and and page layouts that I have always loved. The story is fun, sweet, and thoughtful- again just what I have come to expect from the author. I think that new and returning readers in the young and early reader groups will greatly enjoy the book, and it might be helpful for them in facing the worries people of all ages are having about going outside and facing the world again as things start to reopen.
Scaredy is happy to stay in his nut tree. Why would he ever leave? The outside is filled with dangers. Like aliens! And dust! And a certain fluffy bunny who likes to pop up! But things don't always go as planned, even for a super-prepared squirrel. When he has to venture out of his tree and onto the ground, Scaredy panics and plays dead but maybe the fluffy bunny's not so scary after all? In a nutshell, Scaredy might just make a new friend, if he is brave enough.
Fans of Scaredy Squirrel will be gratified to see this collection of stories featuring or risk adverse friend, and newcomers will get a thorough introduction to the joy of his antics. Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell is not really anything new or surprising for those of us that loved the picturebooks- Scaredy is still scared of just about everything and makes some interesting choices to keep everything clean and safe. However, like with most long time favorites, a new twist is not necessarily what readers are looking for. The book looks just like I expect, with the same charming illustrations and and page layouts that I have always loved. The story is fun, sweet, and thoughtful- again just what I have come to expect from the author. I think that new and returning readers in the young and early reader groups will greatly enjoy the book, and it might be helpful for them in facing the worries people of all ages are having about going outside and facing the world again as things start to reopen.
January 10, 2022
We bought the first Scaredy Squirrel book as a birthday present for a friend's kid years ago. I'll admit it--we read it first, and we loved it so much that we bought it when we had our own kids. Each of the books has been well-loved, and it was exciting to find out about the new book. This one is longer than the typical adventures and is divided into three parts. As usual, it consists of a story accompanied by diagrams, notes, and brilliant illustrations.
It starts off with a quiz that you have to pass before reading the book. I enjoy these interactive elements, as they got our child engaged right away. The adventures build upon each other, with some new characters introduced while Scaredy endeavors to navigate a complex (and germ-filled) world. His plans are clever, hilarious, and silly--and, as always, not everything plays out as he had hoped.
This is a very enjoyable addition to the series. It's definitely a good sign that, after reading it, our child wanted to reread the earlier books. Highly recommended.
It starts off with a quiz that you have to pass before reading the book. I enjoy these interactive elements, as they got our child engaged right away. The adventures build upon each other, with some new characters introduced while Scaredy endeavors to navigate a complex (and germ-filled) world. His plans are clever, hilarious, and silly--and, as always, not everything plays out as he had hoped.
This is a very enjoyable addition to the series. It's definitely a good sign that, after reading it, our child wanted to reread the earlier books. Highly recommended.
June 18, 2021
'Scaredy Squirrel In A Nutshell' with story and art by Melanie Watt is a graphic novel for young readers about a squirrel with a lot of fear.
The book starts with a clever quiz to prove you are allowed to read the book. That set the tone for the humor to follow.
Scarey Squirrel lives in a tree and imagines the danger that could visit him, including wooly mammoths and lumberjacks, but just because he is anxious does not mean that he doesn't take preventative measures. The problem is that his fear might make him miss out on things like making a new friend.
I loved this really fun book. I loved all the weird lists that the squirrel makes and how he deals with the things that scare him. The illustrations are funny as well.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Random House Children's and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
The book starts with a clever quiz to prove you are allowed to read the book. That set the tone for the humor to follow.
Scarey Squirrel lives in a tree and imagines the danger that could visit him, including wooly mammoths and lumberjacks, but just because he is anxious does not mean that he doesn't take preventative measures. The problem is that his fear might make him miss out on things like making a new friend.
I loved this really fun book. I loved all the weird lists that the squirrel makes and how he deals with the things that scare him. The illustrations are funny as well.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Random House Children's and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
March 17, 2021
Hmmm... It didn't help that my preview copy of this didn't appear at all complete, but what we do seem to have is a paranoid, hypochondriac squirrel, who here wants to hoover around the tree he can barely risk leaving, then order in a pizza. But something or someone is going to scare the bejeezus out of him before he can have the first slice, regardless of all his protective gear. I guess the whimsy is here, but part of the problem is that he (once at least) seemed scared of a germ, and � well, I don't need to tell you all about germs, viruses and the sniffles here in 2021. So how much we're supposed to laugh at the critter is very much up for debate � meaning the one killer gag here is the stand-out. And that's not enough to make a classic for any age range. Two and a half stars, then. Now wash your hands.
June 29, 2021
*I received a free e-arc of this title from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Well, not surprisingly, this was super cute! All the same Scaredy Squirrel you love from the picture books but more of it and some fun new pals, too! I also really like how there is no shaming Scaredy for his fears and instead, the treatment of the character is gentle and caring. As a mom of a kiddo with some anxiety, I appreciated that having my kiddo read this wouldn’t make them feel silly or bad about those feelings and may even help them see that sometimes we can walk ourselves through something we feel anxious about and have it turn out alright. ❤️
Looking forward to seeing more of these S.O.S. graphic novels! And looking forward to reading-reading this one as it didn’t appear that all the text was available in this e-arc.
Well, not surprisingly, this was super cute! All the same Scaredy Squirrel you love from the picture books but more of it and some fun new pals, too! I also really like how there is no shaming Scaredy for his fears and instead, the treatment of the character is gentle and caring. As a mom of a kiddo with some anxiety, I appreciated that having my kiddo read this wouldn’t make them feel silly or bad about those feelings and may even help them see that sometimes we can walk ourselves through something we feel anxious about and have it turn out alright. ❤️
Looking forward to seeing more of these S.O.S. graphic novels! And looking forward to reading-reading this one as it didn’t appear that all the text was available in this e-arc.
July 6, 2021
This is another great graphic novel type book to hand to the kid just getting into the graphic novel universe. Scaredy is afraid of everything. If there's a phobia, Scaredy has it. Except for Gyaliaphobia which is an irrational fear of nuts. Or Dendrophobia which is a fear of trees... He is not afraid of nuts or trees. But pretty much everything else. Mammoths? Lumberjacks? Termites? And dust bunnies. Definitely dust bunnies. Fortunately, he meets Ivy and discovers that he's not the only one that is afraid of things. If you know a kid that has a few fears, this would be a great book to read together to explore why Scaredy is afraid and while some of those fears are healthy, some aren't. But mostly this is a silly, fun book that is a great follow up or companion to the Scaredy Squirrel picture books.
February 21, 2022
When Scaredy's vacuum gets clogged he has to come up with a plan to unclog it without running into any of those scary creatures out to get him, or any other dangers on the ground. But when he runs into someone on the ground, are things over for Scaredy?
I saw this being advertised as a new graphic novel series so I thought it would be longer than Scaredy's previous adventures. It is really just another picture book in pretty much the exact same style as his previous books. I think they just realized that they can market the Scaredy books as graphic novels and sell more of them. Genius on their part but a little disappointing for librarians thinking we were getting a longer Scaredy book. Oh well, the picture book readers will rejoice. This is another zany, humorous, friendship adventure with everyone's favorite extremely anxious squirrel.
I saw this being advertised as a new graphic novel series so I thought it would be longer than Scaredy's previous adventures. It is really just another picture book in pretty much the exact same style as his previous books. I think they just realized that they can market the Scaredy books as graphic novels and sell more of them. Genius on their part but a little disappointing for librarians thinking we were getting a longer Scaredy book. Oh well, the picture book readers will rejoice. This is another zany, humorous, friendship adventure with everyone's favorite extremely anxious squirrel.
February 12, 2021
You seriously can't go wrong with a Scaredy Squirrel story, and this one's no different!
Scaredy Squirrel likes to stay in his nut tree. That's where it's safe. It's the outside world that is scary and unpredictable...you never know when a fluffy bunny could pop out at you! Unfortunately, something goes wrong and Scaredy Squirrel's finds himself forced to leave his tree, confront his anxieties, and possibly make a new friend in order to move forward.
Scaredy Squirrel tales are fantastic because they might be a little bit silly and overdramatic, but they teach even the most anxious of kids that it's ok to be a little bit scared! Plus Mélanie Watt's illustrations are simple, yet hilarious and perfectly demonstrate Scaredy Squirrel's insecurities and elaborate plans.
5 stars!
Scaredy Squirrel likes to stay in his nut tree. That's where it's safe. It's the outside world that is scary and unpredictable...you never know when a fluffy bunny could pop out at you! Unfortunately, something goes wrong and Scaredy Squirrel's finds himself forced to leave his tree, confront his anxieties, and possibly make a new friend in order to move forward.
Scaredy Squirrel tales are fantastic because they might be a little bit silly and overdramatic, but they teach even the most anxious of kids that it's ok to be a little bit scared! Plus Mélanie Watt's illustrations are simple, yet hilarious and perfectly demonstrate Scaredy Squirrel's insecurities and elaborate plans.
5 stars!
April 15, 2021
Another adorable and hilarious book about the Scaredy Squirrel and his adventures. My daughters (age 3 and 7) both loved this book, but it was a bigger hit with the eldest. Part of the reason might be the format: this is a graphic novel chapter book. So far, we've only encountered Scaredy Squirrel in colorful paperbacks designed for a younger audience. My first grader truly loved this chapter format. We all love Scaredy Squirrel for reminding us of the downsides of taking yourself too seriously.
Thanks to Random House and #netgalley for graciously offering a complimentary e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to Random House and #netgalley for graciously offering a complimentary e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 7, 2021
Scaredy squirrel is back, this time in a graphic novel series. Scaredy squirrel’s adventures span three chapters and include a vacuum (?), pizza and a new friend. As in the picture book series, he spends the majority of his time in his nut tree thinking about everything that could go wrong.
Great illustrations, humor and simple text is engaging and perfect for young beginning readers. My 7 year old son and I read it together and couldn’t help smiling as we read. I plan to share with my students when it releases at the end of May as they are big Scaredy squirrel fans! Thanks NetGalley.
Great illustrations, humor and simple text is engaging and perfect for young beginning readers. My 7 year old son and I read it together and couldn’t help smiling as we read. I plan to share with my students when it releases at the end of May as they are big Scaredy squirrel fans! Thanks NetGalley.
May 28, 2021
I received an electronic ARC from Random House Children's Publishing through NetGalley.
Scaredy is back and continues to make plans to protect his tree and not leave it. He shows readers his elaborate set up to keep the tree and himself safe from all enemies and concerns. A new neighbor arrives and hopes to become friends. They agree to meet and have pizza. As expected, this starts well but runs into catastrophe according to Scaredy.
Readers will love the continued humor in the easy to follow text and detailed illustrations.
Scaredy is back and continues to make plans to protect his tree and not leave it. He shows readers his elaborate set up to keep the tree and himself safe from all enemies and concerns. A new neighbor arrives and hopes to become friends. They agree to meet and have pizza. As expected, this starts well but runs into catastrophe according to Scaredy.
Readers will love the continued humor in the easy to follow text and detailed illustrations.
June 3, 2021
Have you read any of Melanie Watt's previous "Scaredy Squirrel" offerings? Then you'll know what you're getting into with "Scaredy Squirrel in a Nutshell" -- more unintended adventures for everyone's favorite hypochondriac rodent. "Scaredy" books are loveable, as we root for the titular character to overcome his over-hyped fears to have an enjoyable day. Your kids should love the cheekiness of Scaredy. I recommend reading these aloud with a rapid-fire delivery to underscore Scaredy's skittishness.
July 30, 2021
Even though this is Scaredy Squirrel's first "graphic novel," it reads more like a long picture book. Kind of like and the other Unlimited Squirrels books (hmm, must be a squirrel thing).
What can I say, I love Scaredy Squirrel and his quirks!
This was a great addition to the series and I can't wait for more!
What can I say, I love Scaredy Squirrel and his quirks!
This was a great addition to the series and I can't wait for more!
April 17, 2021
Scaredy Squirrel is always a huge hit with my little nieces. The warning at the beginning of this book is hilarious. It set the tone for the rest of the book, which is equally hilarious - and charming too! A great book to help children overcome their fears and open dialogue on why taking risks isn't too scary, sometimes! We look forward to adding this one to our collection too. Thanks for the publisher, author, and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
April 18, 2021
This was a cute little book that I enjoyed reading for the most part. I like reviewing books like these to see if my preschool kids would enjoy listening to them. I believe that they would enjoy this one but older kids would enjoy it much more. Scaredy Squirrel books are funny at times and this one was too. Overall, I do think that this would be a great book for kids.
*Thank you to Netgalley for my arc of the book. All opinions are my own.*
*Thank you to Netgalley for my arc of the book. All opinions are my own.*
May 11, 2021
Thanks to Random House Children's + NetGalley for the e-ARC of SCAREDY SQUIRREL IN A NUTSHELL by Melanie Watt, expected pub date 6/15/2021.
Perfect for fans of Scaredy Squirrel picture books, this early reader chapter book is full of the humor and comedy we already know and enjoy. Perfect for young readers who are gaining confidence in their abilities, and especially those who enjoy the humor in illustrations as much as in the words of stories.
Perfect for fans of Scaredy Squirrel picture books, this early reader chapter book is full of the humor and comedy we already know and enjoy. Perfect for young readers who are gaining confidence in their abilities, and especially those who enjoy the humor in illustrations as much as in the words of stories.
May 25, 2021
We are all scared of something. Doesn’t matter if you’re short or tall, kitty cat or little kid. Adults get scared too. But it seems scaredy squirrel is extra scared of everything. He takes a who,e to think things out and might appear to some as a little too slowly. But kids and parents alike will get some good belly laughs reading this book. Great storytime/read out loud book, too!
I received an advanced reader copy for free from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received an advanced reader copy for free from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
June 12, 2021
Scaredy squirrel is up to more adventures in this new addition to the series. Watt has improved her series by making the latest adventure in a graphic novel format which will appeal to a wider audience. Kids in upper elementary who would not normally select a picture book will gladly read anything in graphic novel format. I have always enjoyed her humor and adorable characters. This is sure to be a winner with fans of The Narwhal and Jelly series.
October 6, 2021
When my boys were little, the scaredy squirrel books were their favorites. When I came across this new book I just had to buy it for nostalgic sake. When I brought it home my youngest (Who is now almost 21) exclaimed “scaredy squirrel?! I LOVED him! Mom please tell me that you bought that book for us to keep� �..😆. This new publication graphic novel did not disappoint even now. I don’t care how old you are, scaredy squirrel books are amazing!!
March 18, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Random House Canada for the digital advance reading copy of this book.
Scaredy Squirrel did a great job of explaining how scary it can be to meet someone new. I love that they meet halfway and by the end Ivy knows that it will be two hours before Scaredy answers.
All in all a fun book.
Scaredy Squirrel did a great job of explaining how scary it can be to meet someone new. I love that they meet halfway and by the end Ivy knows that it will be two hours before Scaredy answers.
All in all a fun book.
June 19, 2021
This is such a silly book! Scaredy Squirrel is scared of almost everything. He does finally come around to the idea of a friend though. That is where things really get interesting because with a new friend comes new adventures and some of those may be a bit scary as well but that’s where friends come in to help you get through it all, right?
August 1, 2021
A graphic novel of the popular picture book series "Scaredy Squirrel." Scaredy is afraid to leave his treehouse do various phobias and unwarranted fears, but he is forced to do so with humorous results and making new friends in the process. A funny read for fans of the picture books or to those in 6-8 years of age who are new to Scaredy and his squirrely behavior.
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