Girl Versus Squirrel, written by Hayley Barrett and illustrated by Renee Andriani. Margaret Ferguson Books, Holiday House. Penguin Random House. 2020. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"With her hockey stick and some duct tape, Pearl extended the teacup's pole. "There," she said, "that's tall enough to stop any squirrel in its tracks." She watched, breathless with anticipated success, but was disappointed. "Drat, drat, that speedy squirrel," she groused. "I'll make the pole taller."

Pearl knows what she wants in her backyard. She wants to birdwatch. What better way to do that than with bird feeders; she builds three. They each have their own special look, and all are meant to nourish the birds they will attract. The birds visit; Pearl is pleased. 

Until a squirrel decides that peanuts are a prize, and worth persistent effort to gobble each and every one that Pearl leaves. Determined not to be outwitted by the squirrel, Pearl begins a campaign to deter it from stopping at her feeder. Pearl is no match for the enterprising rodent. No matter the work she does, the squirrel is equal to the task. 

"Drat, drat, drat you, squirrel, " growled Pearl. "You're a 

bird-feeder-crashing, teacup-smashing, peanut-poaching pest!"

Pearl doesn't give up; nor does the squirrel. When Pearl discovers what the mother squirrel is doing with all those peanuts she is stealing from the teacup, she has a change of heart. What Pearl does next will delight readers, and encourage some creative ideas of their own! 

This first-person narrative is laden with lively language, and great voice. It is a real treat to read aloud to a group of early years listeners. Ms. Andriani fills double-page spreads with action and enthusiasm for each new attempt made to bring the squirrel to its knees. Humorous, empathetic, and full of fun. Back matter adds Some Squirrelly Facts that are sure to please and inform.