Publishers Weekly
Miller and Ember (Substitute Groundhog) reunite to tell the story of Squirrel, who is eager to make a New Year's resolution but isn't sure where to start ("Is it like making a snack?"). Her friend Bear explains the concept ("A resolution is a promise you make to yourself to be better or to help others"), but Squirrel is then faced with a new problem--coming up with one. As she visits Skunk, Mole, and Turtle and hears their plans for the New Year, Squirrel's desire to help her friends with their resolutions distracts her from her quest to find one. Ember's thoughtfully detailed acrylic paintings create a friendly woodland setting for this largely conflict-free story. In the end, Squirrel discovers that she had a resolution all along: to help others daily. This story teeters on being overly didactic (a final scene that shows Squirrel holding a sign that reads "I resolve to help someone every day!" is overkill), but it should get kids considering resolutions of their own. Ages 5–8. (Sept.)
Children's Literature
- Kris Sauer
As Squirrel is changing the calendar on New Year's Day, he hears a radio announcer say it is a great day to make a resolution. Squirrel is confused by this big word and sets off to learn more about it. Smart animal that he is, Squirrel's first stop is a visit to Bear, the local librarian. In spite of Bear's help, Squirrel is still confused. He continues on his way, helping many of his forest friends solve problems as he goes, but never quite figuring out what his resolution could be. In the end, he discovers his natural tendency to help animals is the perfect resolution of all. This is a delightful story that will help young learners in kindergarten through third grade to understand that most adult of words and conventions. Meant to be read aloud, the beautiful color illustrations help tell the story of Squirrel and his friends. Beyond the obvious tie-in to New Year's, the emphasis on caring and friendship will help generate an excellent discussion on the value of positive change. Reviewer: Kris Sauer
School Library Journal
PreS-Gr 2—On January first, Squirrel hears on the radio that it is a great day to make a resolution. Not knowing how to make one, she visits Bear, the librarian, who tells her that "a resolution is a promise you make to yourself to be better or to help others." As Squirrel walks through the woods to think of a resolution, she meets other woodland friends who need help. She cheers up Skunk, who is sick in bed; helps Mole and Turtle find the perfect place to dig a garden; and teaches Porcupine some silly jokes so he can laugh more. At the Hidey Hole Diner, Squirrel is still stumped that she doesn't have a resolution until all of her friends tell how she helped them keep their promises and she learns that her actions speak for themselves. The simple dialogue and predictable plot make this a good read-aloud, and the brightly colored, acrylic cartoons are full of fun details and expression, giving the woodland creatures anthropomorphic characteristics. This introduction to the tradition of resolutions is a strong addition to holiday collections.—Kristine M. Casper, Huntington Public Library, NY
Kirkus Reviews
Squirrel hopes to ring in the New Year with style. As librarian Bear explains, "When we begin a new year, we make a fresh start." From soothing sick Skunk to teaching Porcupine comedy, Squirrel helps her fellow woodland animals master their own resolutions. Unfortunately for the well-meaning rodent, Squirrel struggles to find a resolution to claim as her very own. She might not know what it is, but everyone else does; as Rabbit tells her, "Your actions are better than words. It looks like you resolved to help someone every day." The sugary-sweet conclusion provides little punch and begs the question, doesn't resolve require some active thought? Ember's illustrations allow the cuddly characters to pop against the bright acrylic spreads, and these anthropomorphized woods (a classic diner perches in a tree, for instance) will appeal to the audience. Those searching for a spot of cheer in the gloomy cold months may find a serviceable holiday selection with Squirrel and her forest friends. (Picture book. 4-8)
