Sloth and Squirrel in a Pickle by Mealey, Cathy Ballou

A speedy squirrel and a sleepy sloth try to get the job done in this funny, heartwarming tale of two lovable, but unlikely, friends.

Though Sloth and Squirrel are good friends, they have different ways of doing things -- and different speeds of doing them. So, when Squirrel gets them jobs as pickle packers to earn money for a new bike, things don't go according to plan. It seems that the contrasting skill sets of a fast-as-lightening squirrel and a slow-as-molasses sloth can make for a mess of an outcome, and before long, the friends are shown the pickle factory's door, along with the 677 1/2 jars of pickles they packed incorrectly! Now the pair are bicycle-less, with only pickles to show for themselves. Or so they think -- until the resourceful pair come up with an ingenious plan!

This delightful story from Cathy Ballou Mealey is a celebration of friendships of all kinds and a testament to ingenuity and hard work. Packed with funny details that aren't in the text, Kelly Collier's engaging illustrations are full of personality and silly, emotionally expressive humor. Together they create a hilarious picture book that's perfect for a fun and lively read-aloud. At the same time, the positive themes in the book highlight a growth mindset and character education lessons on teamwork, perseverance and initiative.

Author: Cathy Ballou Mealey
Publisher: Kids Can Press
Published: 05/04/2021
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.95lbs
Size: 10.30h x 9.20w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9781525302381
Audience: Ages 4-8

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 2.6
Point Value: 0.5
Interest Level: Lower Grade
Quiz #/Name: 518405 / Sloth & Squirrel in a Pickle


Review Citation(s):
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 05/01/2021
Kirkus Reviews 05/01/2021

About the Author
Cathy Ballou Mealey is a former college administrator and instructor. She volunteers in schools and organizations supporting children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. She has degrees in psychology, classical studies and higher education administration. She is also the author of When a Tree Grows, published by Sterling in 2019. She lives north of Boston with her family.