They scuttle, slither, buzz, and crawl;
They get no praise or love at all,
But is there someone who will send
A note that says, "You have a friend"?
“This book is successful in its portrayal of creepy critters as
deserving of praise. Gallegos’s playful illustrations transform the
hideous creatures such as the vulture, spider, and bat into animals that
children would not fear approaching. Preschoolers and early
elementary-aged children will adore the colorful pictures and the rhythm
of the poems. If the book were to exceed the author’s expectations,
children could take the meaning behind these poems and transfer it into
their everyday lives, perhaps resulting in bully prevention and a
greater respect for hard work over appearances. Parents will be proud at
the delight their children will take in this pleasant book.”
— Foreword Reviews
“We are so delighted to carry your book! It was first recommended to us
by [another National Parks bookstore manager] and her glowing review was
spot-on accurate. Teachers love the book, grandparents love the book,
and kids love the book. It is always a joy to see someone in the store
reading a verse or two out loud -- and then to hear the comments they
evoke. I particularly appreciate that you are introducing youngsters to
poetry's power to convey down-to-earth, accessible ideas.”
—National Park Service bookstore manager
"One of the most important things in wildlife education is bringing to
light an understanding of the animals that are misunderstood, the
animals that are thought of to be creepy-crawly or maybe a little gross.
All of these animals still matter in the big scheme of nature, and
that's what this book does."
— Sulphur Creek Nature Center
