About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to navigate playdates where friends have different energy levels or interests. It is a perfect tool for the 'social director' child who often feels frustrated when others do not want to follow their specific plan for fun. Through four short stories, Squirrel learns that being a good friend means meeting others where they are, rather than forcing his own high-energy agenda on them. Lisa Moser uses gentle humor to explore the nuances of empathy and social compromise. Squirrel's enthusiasm is infectious, but the book realistically portrays how that same energy can be overwhelming for a sleepy turtle or a busy mouse. For children ages 4 to 8, this early reader offers a safe space to discuss how to respect boundaries while still finding creative ways to connect with different personalities.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
None. The book is entirely secular and focuses on everyday social dynamics between anthropomorphic animals.
Ideal Reader
An energetic 5 or 6-year-old who tends to dominate playtime and feels personally rejected when a peer wants to do something else. It is also excellent for early readers transitioning to chapter-style formats.
