Frisky Brisky Hippity Hop

Photos of Central Park squirrels illustrate the rhymes of an adapted 19th century poem. The engaging photos capture the frenetic energy of the cheeky squirrels as they romp and play, elude birds of prey, gather food, and build a nest. The rhymes are very brief (slight challenge when the photos call for you to linger on the page) and chock full of interactive variety, with action words, onomatopoeia, counting to three, and even the question "what do you see?" It would be fun to encourage wobblers and toddlers to mimic the actions of the squirrels ("hippity hop," "whirly twirly, round and round," "giggly wriggly"...) and encourage grown-ups to interact ("huddly cuddly, snuggle in tight").

Follow a squirrel through its daily routines, depicted in detailed photographs by Murray Head and told through a lively rhythmic poem originally by Alexina White, modified by Susan Lurie. Watch as the squirrel encounters danger with a hawk and escapes death’s grip, searches for food in several places, plays through the trees, and makes nests and other home necessities. The rhyming through the book makes this nonfiction story flow easily and make it seem less educational than it is. The real-life photographs add to the story as a whole, magnifying the funniness and human-like characteristics of the squirrel.

Summary: A poetry book about squirrels and what they do.
Review: A delightful book with actual pictures of squirrels. The poem makes for a fun read with little kids.

Wonderful photographs of adorable bushy-tailed rodents illustrate this fun 1871 poem. expanded with new verses.

Poetry combined with photography leads to a delightful autumn book for not only children but anyone who enjoys the season. Not many words combined with awesome photography lure you to get outdoors to enjoy the season.

Pam S. / Marathon County Public Library
Find this book in our library catalog.

great rhyme, wonderful pictures