I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young squirrel takes it upon himself to help an injured Dragonfly, and stirs up a friendship neither of them saw coming in author Brenda W. Huddleston’s “The Squirrel and the Dragonfly”.
The Synopsis
This early reader story follows a squirrel named Liam and a Dragonfly named Sophia who have an accidental meeting in the woods. Realizing Sophia is in trouble and needs his help, Liam jumps into action. When Liam gets his forest friends to help rescue Sophia, the adventure proves to be an unlikely but lasting friendship for all of them.
These creatures of nature teach us valuable lessons about the importance of honoring our differences, especially when someone needs our help.
Parents, grandparents, educators, and kids will love The Squirrel & the Dragonfly and the vivid illustrations and positive messages for younger children.
The Review
The author did an incredible job of crafting a narrative that really felt both emotional and educational at the same time for younger readers. The almost cinematic quality of the artwork and imagery in this book not only drew the reader into the story but helped to keep a hopeful and lighthearted tone throughout the narrative.
To me, the theme the author explored was really the heart of this book. The lessons learned here of accepting our differences from one another and learning to not only live together but grow and help one another through life’s journey made this such a gripping story. The emotions the squirrel felt upon his friend’s evolution throughout the story made this such an engaging read, and the rich dynamics between the squirrel and the dragonfly made this a moving story.
The Verdict
Captivating, emotional, and thoughtful, author Brenda Huddleston’s “The Squirrel and the Dragonfly” is a must-read children’s book and illustrated story. The author did a brilliant job of weaving a narrative together that felt adventurous and kind all at once, and the theme of pushing aside our differences, acknowledging them, and moving forward together to not only befriend each other but help one another in their time in need was so profoundly moving to see come to life in this children’s book. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
Brenda Huddleston discovered her love for writing late in life. After retiring from a long career in corporate management, she moved to the country where she finally had time to stop and smell the roses. During the summer, she would spend time with her three-year-old great-grandson discovering the joy and excitement of watching the animals interact and taking in the sheer beauty of nature.
Brenda lives in rural North Carolina on the Little River where there is abundance of nature and animals from which to choose the characters in her books.
She has been invited to read her books at libraries, daycare centers, and bookstores where she draws delight from watching the children’s faces light up with wonder as they hear the stories and ask questions.
Learning to enjoy reading at a young age can be an invaluable learning tool. Brenda feels strongly that her books must incorporate the essential lessons of childhood. Sharing, kindness, compassion, leadership, and diversity are easily understandable through the eyes of these cute animals.