Review of Squirrels in Antarctica by Sari Karplus, Illustrated by Todd Wilkerson

 

 

Book Details:

Book Title:  Squirrels in Antarctica by Sari Karplus
Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 34 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Tip Top Story Shop
Release date:   Mar 2024
Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.

Book Description:

This fantastical book of animals in unusual places will tickle your brain, leading readers of all ages imagining their own silly combos. You'll see a skiing seal in Switzerland, a pufferfish piloting an airplane, a sloth who runs a marathon (but isn't ever done), and so much more! With fun illustrations and an educational twist, this book encourages readers to embrace their limitless imagination, explore the world, and experience animals big and small in their not-so-natural habitats. Perfect for bedtime reading or as a classroom favorite, Squirrels in Antarctica sparks boundless imagination. So, come along on this epic journey and "Let your thoughts fly limitless like snails on shooting stars." Is it a book? Is it a word game? Can it be both?!

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N
add to Goodreads

Meet the Author:

Sari Karplus got her storytelling start as a comedian and filmmaker in Los Angeles. But when an improvised bedtime story to her three young children inspired her first kids' book, she officially joined the ranks of the book writing world. Sari loves to create stories with fun journeys and teachable moments... with a healthy side of humor. Sari has written all 3 books of the Robotastic! series. "Sari" rhymes with "Mary." Sari loves rhyming.

connect with author: website ~ instagram 

Sari Karplus Author Interview

 

What inspired you to write this book? Is there an actual game that goes with it?

Squirrels in Antarctica was inspired by a game we play at our house of the same name. My son invented it in second grade to help us keep his younger siblings at the dinner table (when they were known to wander off). The game worked like a charm and we were able to eat in peace. What’s even better, it inspired so much creativity and laughter. A win all around! I wanted to share this concept with the world in the most fun way I could, and thus turning it into a lovely, rhyming picture book. The best part about this game is you don’t need any single thing to play it– just your imagination. There’s no board. There’s no score. You can start or stop at any point. It’s convenient to bust it out anywhere or any time that you are with friends or family. The book is chock full of fun examples to get your brain thinking creatively.

 

There are so many fun animal and place combinations in the book. Do you have a favorite page?

My favorite might be the blobfish teaching English in Spain. But ask me another day, I’ll have a different answer for you.

Your other books are about robots. Why the departure with this book?

Ah yes, you’re referring to my Robotastic! book series. I love these books. They are super fun STEM picture books about robots and friendship that I started at the dawn of the pandemic. And while I have no doubt I will be adding to that series in the future, Squirrels in Antarctica was calling my name. The universe kept taking over my brain and handing me these hilarious combinations of animals and places that I really wanted to share. And I just had to say, “Ok, universe, you win. Game on!” While there are over 30 different animals in unexpected places in the book, there are probably another 100 that didn’t make the cut. But maybe those animals are just… hibernating?

 

Is that your way of saying that Squirrels in Antarctica is going to be a series?

I am very much implying that. However, we’re still in talks to see if a Squirrels in Antarctica series could be in the works. Each page was meticulously illustrated by the very funny and talented Todd Wilkerson. Does his iPad even have enough storage for another 30+ charming animals in unexpected locales? I’ll ask and get back to you.

 

What’s a tip for writers who want to get their books published?

This journey to publishing will undoubtedly be challenging. But if you have a story worth sharing, be patient! I guarantee you can bust through the roadblocks you may encounter. 

MY REVIEW

This is a fun-filled book that will challenge young children to use their imagination. The animals in the story are in unusual habitats and are well illustrated. The story will bring smiles and laughter from any child. Maybe adults too, as I found myself back to earlier days when I was young.

The brightly illustrated pages will get a child's attention and take them on a fun adventure. It would make a nice addition to your child's library and one they will pick up more than once. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

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Squirrels in Antarctica by Sari Karplus Book Tour Giveaway