Dead Squirrels Everywhere

by Gabrielle Ferrara, Natalia Nova (Illustrator)

Counting to ten has never been easier for children who love the macabre! Dead Squirrels Everywhere is a fully illustrated children's book with a slightly morbid twist. This book is perfect for teaching kids of all ages how to count to ten. Children will have so much fun; they won't even know they are learning!
*No squirrels were harmed in the making of this book*

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

31 pages, Paperback

Published June 28, 2022

Reviews

[SusanTalksBooks · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, for a digital copy of children's book, Dead Squirrels Everywhere. This is a 1-10 counting book published Sept 1, 2023.

This book falls into a very specific genre, in that it is intended for children who can handle portrayals of the death of animals (being run over, eaten by crows, electrocuted, frozen, drowned are some examples). I'm not sure who those are children are, but they must be out there?! Or maybe some parents want to destigmatize death of animals? There are drawings to accompany each page that are sort of cute and not gory, but still show the concept of them dying. But the book redeems itself on the last page by saying, oh wait, all 10 squirrels are just asleep! There is also a nice remembrance at the beginning of the book to the author's father.

In any case, the book has a nice cadence and graphic quality. But it wouldn't be for my kids due to the subject matter. 2-stars.

[Ivonne Rovira · Rating 2 out of 5]

For whom is this picture book? I know, I know: The subtitle says “A Counting Book for Children.” But how many 3- or 4-year-olds would not be alarmed by a book full of massacred squirrels? Anyone old enough to think the gothic vibe to be fun already knows how to count way farther than 10. This is a book for dreadful hipster aunties who fool themselves into think that the offspring of their square brother or sister will be delighted rather than repulsed by this macabre book. Two stars — but only if you don’t give it to a child under 9.

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Uniquely Morbid in exchange for an honest review.

[Megan Markey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a pretty funny take on a children’s counting book 😂 I’m not sure how fun it would be for sensitive kids, but if they lean toward a darker morbid side they may get a kick out it!

[Paula Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Dead Squirrels Everywhere" by Gabrielle Ferrara, with illustrations by Natalia Nova, is an adult picture book that takes a morbidly humorous approach to counting. This book is a quirky and darkly entertaining read that is definitely not suitable for children, unless you want to traumatize them with images of squirrels meeting various untimely ends. The concept of this book revolves around teaching counting to ten, but with a macabre twist – each number is associated with a squirrel's death in increasingly bizarre and unfortunate accidents.

From the first page, readers are greeted with an irreverent and darkly comedic tone. Ferrara’s text is straightforward and engaging, making it easy to follow along with the counting narrative. The repetition of the phrase "dead squirrels" alongside the counting creates a rhythmic and almost hypnotic reading experience. It's a playful and unexpected way to approach a counting book, ensuring that readers of a certain taste will be both amused and intrigued.

Natalia Nova’s illustrations are the true highlight of this book. Her artwork is vivid and detailed, capturing the absurdity and humor of each scenario with precision. The illustrations strike a perfect balance between the grotesque and the humorous, ensuring that while the subject matter is dark, it is presented in a way that is more amusing than disturbing. From squirrels drowning to those meeting their end by electrocution, each illustration is a visual treat that complements the text beautifully.

While "Dead Squirrels Everywhere" is undoubtedly a fun and unique read, it is crucial to remember that it is intended for an adult audience. The morbid humor and graphic illustrations are not suitable for children, and the book's charm lies in its ability to surprise and entertain adults with its offbeat approach to a seemingly innocent subject like counting.

In conclusion, "Dead Squirrels Everywhere" is a brilliantly illustrated and cleverly written adult picture book that offers a twisted take on counting. Ferrara and Nova have created a memorable and entertaining work that will appeal to those with a taste for dark humor. Just remember, no squirrels were harmed in the making of this book!

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book Review: Dead Squirrels Everywhere by Gabrielle Ferrara & Natalia Nova

Rating: 3 Stars

So, I just finished Dead Squirrels Everywhere, and I have to say, it's definitely an experience! This book is marketed as a children's counting book, but let me just say, it swings a bit on the dark side. The premise is pretty simple: it's all about counting to ten, but with a twist that only those with a taste for the macabre would appreciate. The illustrations are colorful and engaging, but instead of cute bunnies or playful puppies, we get… well, dead squirrels. Yep, you read that right!

Now, I can see how this could be a fun way for kids to learn their numbers. Each page features a different way to count those unfortunate little critters, and honestly, it’s pretty funny. The humor is definitely morbid, which might not sit well with everyone, especially if you’re looking for something more traditional for your little ones. If your kid has even a hint of a dark sense of humor, they might just love this counting adventure!

However, I've got to keep it real—this book is probably not going to be suitable for most children. The graphic illustrations and the overall theme might be a little too much for the younger crowd. That said, if you’re into quirky and unconventional stories that make learning fun (albeit with a twisted edge), this could be right up your alley.

Overall, I’d give it three stars. It’s not for everyone, but for those who can appreciate a hilariously dark take on counting, you’ll at least get a chuckle out of it! Just make sure to gauge your audience before sharing it—some kids might find it hilarious, while others could be totally freaked out. So if you're ready for a counting book that dares to be different, Dead Squirrels Everywhere might just be worth a look!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not all children are inspired by princesses and puppies. Sometimes children (or even adults) like unusual, strange, and even morbid at times topics. Considering this, children's author Gabrielle Ferrara has written a unique counting picture book that will appeal to children who like things that are a bit different.

Dead Squirrels Everywhere starts off with, "One dead squirrel was poked with a stick." The illustrations done by Natalia Nova are beautiful and even whimsical despite the topic being dead animals. The squirrels are never shown in a gorry or scary way; most look like they are sleeping, or in the case of the squirrels shocked by a wire, in funny images that will leave you laughing. The story flows well and is a joy to read out loud. The lyrical and rhyming lines will have kids laughing and following along, wondering what disasters will strike the poor squirrels next.

Learning to count to ten has never been so shocking and entertaining. This picture book also highlights many of the dangers that impact wildlife and can open up discussions with children leading to lessons in science as well. I could see this as a beautiful book for classes around Halloween with its slightly spooky but not scary images.

Dead Squirrels Everywhere is a highly original and unforgettable children's book focused on counting to ten. This is the perfect addition to a classroom or home library for children that like things a bit dark and out of the ordinary. Preschoolers through early elementary students will be captivated by this unconventional tale. This is sure to become a favorite story for many children.

[Sneha · Rating 3 out of 5]

#DeadSquirrelsEverywhere #GabrielleFerrara #UniquelyMorbid #CountingBook #NetGalley

This is an Advanced Listening Copy of the audiobook from Net Galley.

Gabrielle Ferrara has created something that will definitely divide parents. Dead Squirrels Everywhere takes the traditional counting book concept and gives it a decidedly dark twist that some will find hilarious while others may question its appropriateness for young readers.

The premise is straightforward enough - teaching children to count from one to ten using vibrantly morbid illustrations of deceased squirrels in various scenarios. Ferrara's artwork is well-executed, and there's no denying the book accomplishes its educational goal of teaching numbers. The author's reassurance that no actual squirrels were harmed in the making of this book shows awareness of potential concerns.

While I personally found the concept more odd than engaging, it's clear this book has found its audience among parents who appreciate unconventional children's literature with a macabre sense of humor.

The illustrations are detailed and the counting progression is logical, making it functional as an educational tool despite the unusual subject matter.

This feels like one of those books that will either become a cult favorite in certain households or get quietly returned to the shelf.

Parents seeking something completely different from typical counting books might find this fits the bill, though traditional approaches to early learning probably serve most families better.

[Dorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dead Squirrels Everywhere
by: Gabrielle Ferrara
Illustrated: Natalia Nova
Uniquely Morbid Books
2023
5.0

This was fun to read. I loved it. Its a creepy counting book with a nod towards the morbid. Number 4-sick with disease, Number 6 found frozen in snow , Number 8 caught by a spider are fantastic, my favorite; and are imaginative and well done. A true conversation starter. Illustrations are fantastic, and fit the book well.

Gabrille Ferrara is an artist and entrpeneur of Victorian inspired art and jewwelry, using ethnically sourced animal remains. She has a Master's degree in Museum Studies and an undergraduate degree in Anthropoligy and Art History.
Thanks to #NetGalley for sending this ARC for review
#NetGalley #DeadSquirrelsEverywhere

[Andreea · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Uniquely Morbid for the opportunity to read and review this book.

While I am sure this book is not for every parent out there, I personally believe a little bit of darkness never hurt anyone. But what do I know? I was raised with the original Grimm tales, not the Disney version so maybe that's why?

The illustrations are not graphic. But they are also not the most fun out there. They could be better and more captivating.

This will start some interesting discussions with the little ones.

[Donna Maguire · Rating 2 out of 5]

I gave this book a go as I was intrigued but having read the book now, I do wonder who this book is actually aimed at - the book has a subtitle of 'A Counting Book for Children' and I certainly wouldn't allow my daughter to read this book when she was at the of reading this kind of book.

She is 7 now and she would still be upset if I was to give her this book, we have a squirrel who visit our garden and she has named him Cyril... Based on this and the images of the dead squirrels that have died through various ways in the book, this isn't a book that I would share with my daughter due to the content and I didn't find it to be funny as a parent but it may be more to the taste of others.

[Jakki (BizzyBookNook) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll be perfectly honest I requested this mostly from pure curiousness. I laughed so hard at every page of this and not because it's absurd, well it is a little, but in a good way. Maybe it's just my morbid sense of humor or the fact that happy colorful children's books are a dime a dozen, but I loved it. And I know my two boys are going to get a good kick out of it. Thank you for making a book for us parents and kids a little off the beaten path!

[Justine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book got me at the beginning with the title. I needed to see what it was about. I also knew that my daughter would get a kick out of it. When we read it I thought it was such a twist! Not what I was expecting. My daughter made us read it twice but then she said she was scared and didn’t like dead squirrels haha.
I’d still recommend it to others.

Thanks to Netgalley and Uniquely Morbid for the copy.

[M.C. Ryder · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's a saying, never judge a book by its cover. There should also be a saying, never judge a book by its title! The title portrays a dark theme, and while listening to the author read her children's book out loud, during a book signing event, I wondered where she was going with the story. By the time you she read the last page, I sighed with relief and smiled with joy. One thing I've learned by experience is children do like dark stories, and even dark stories get a happy ending.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hey parents and young readers, you've gotta check out Dead Squirrels Everywhere by Gabrielle Ferrara! It's not your average counting book—it's got a quirky, slightly creepy vibe that kids will absolutely love. The illustrations are super cool and the whole concept is just so unique. Trust me, this book will have your little ones giggling and counting from one to ten in no time! 🐿️

[Abigail L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabrielle Ferrara's Dead Squirrels Everywhere is a unique children's book that combines counting with a whimsically macabre theme. The illustrations are vibrant and engaging, making it a visual treat for young readers. I enjoyed reading it because it cleverly turns a potentially dark subject into something humorous and educational, making learning fun for kids.

[Abbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dead Squirrels Everywhere is a really unique children's book. It's a little bit creepy, but still has enough humor for kids to enjoy! It incorporates counting skills with the dark theme of dead squirrels. The illustrations match the vibes of the story well, but could have been a little more engaging.

Thank you to NetGalley and Uniquely Morbid for the ARC.

[Lydia Underhill · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is weird. I appreciate it being different, but I didn't see the point. The illustrations are lackluster as well. I'm sorry that this one didn't really work for me.

[Jenn Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

So... This is probably not the picture book to give to very young children without caution. That being said my kids would have loved it! Maybe not at 2 or 3 years old, but once they got a little older they would have loved the rhyming part. Very dark, but beautiful art.

4 stars