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Sally Skunkskin: Grumbles to Grateful
Kindness stinks!
At least that’s what Sally Skunkskin thinks. She’s rude when the beaver minds his business. She’s rude when the coyotes and foxes have fun. She’s even rude when Sneaks the snake tries to help her.
She’s a blunt skunk who needs a lesson in manners. But will she ever learn to hold her tongue the way others hold their noses? She’d better because it’s the only way Sally will ever enjoy the sweet smell of friendship.
Sally Grumbles to Grateful is a warm and gentle story about how to make friends and get along with others—even when you think no one likes you.
At least that’s what Sally Skunkskin thinks. She’s rude when the beaver minds his business. She’s rude when the coyotes and foxes have fun. She’s even rude when Sneaks the snake tries to help her.
She’s a blunt skunk who needs a lesson in manners. But will she ever learn to hold her tongue the way others hold their noses? She’d better because it’s the only way Sally will ever enjoy the sweet smell of friendship.
Sally Grumbles to Grateful is a warm and gentle story about how to make friends and get along with others—even when you think no one likes you.
35 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2025
3 people are currently reading
505 people want to read
About the author
Kathy J. Perry
15 books263 followersPlanting seeds for tomorrow's leaders, I hope my books will inspire kids and young adults to be confident and of excellent character.
Award-winning author:
Nibbler & Captain Make Peace - Bronze Award for children's fiction in 2019 with The Wishing Shelf. (From the Bandana Acres series)
Emeline -A Journey - Finalist Award in the young adult category from both The Wishing Shelf (2020) AND Book Excellence Awards, 2021.
Author & Speaker of stories for children and teens with compelling plots and memorable characters.
Emeline-A Journey, a young adult historical adventure and companion journal - My Journey (guided journal). Published 2nd edition, illustrated 8/1/23 under the title A Journey.
My Bandana Acres Journal (guided journal for ages 8-12).
Released the sequel to Emeline's story: Finding Strength: During the Panic of 1893. (2024)
Released new 5- book early reader chapter book series: Oakwoods, April, 2025.
Member of ALLI (Alliance of Independent Authors). and The History Quill
Award-winning author:
Nibbler & Captain Make Peace - Bronze Award for children's fiction in 2019 with The Wishing Shelf. (From the Bandana Acres series)
Emeline -A Journey - Finalist Award in the young adult category from both The Wishing Shelf (2020) AND Book Excellence Awards, 2021.
Author & Speaker of stories for children and teens with compelling plots and memorable characters.
Emeline-A Journey, a young adult historical adventure and companion journal - My Journey (guided journal). Published 2nd edition, illustrated 8/1/23 under the title A Journey.
My Bandana Acres Journal (guided journal for ages 8-12).
Released the sequel to Emeline's story: Finding Strength: During the Panic of 1893. (2024)
Released new 5- book early reader chapter book series: Oakwoods, April, 2025.
Member of ALLI (Alliance of Independent Authors). and The History Quill
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
June 25, 2025
In Sally Skunkskin Kathy Perry looks at the theme of grumbling vs. gratitude in a way young children can understand.
Sally is a grumpy skunk who doesn’t seem to like anyone and is good at making others mad at her. Boon, the neighborhood turkey vulture, helps Sally understand that it is much better to be kind to others and cultivate friendships.
Each chapter opens with a cute, whimsical illustration by Claudia Gadotti. The illustrations give readers a glimpse into what is coming in the chapter.
The book closes with discussion questions, a glossary, and a Did You Know section. Because of these additions the book would be a good choice for homeschooling or traditional school reading groups.
Sally Skunkskin, and the other books in the Oakwoods series, would make a great addition to the early reader section of a K-12 Christian school library.
I received a complimentary copy of Sally Skunkskin. This is my honest review.
Sally is a grumpy skunk who doesn’t seem to like anyone and is good at making others mad at her. Boon, the neighborhood turkey vulture, helps Sally understand that it is much better to be kind to others and cultivate friendships.
Each chapter opens with a cute, whimsical illustration by Claudia Gadotti. The illustrations give readers a glimpse into what is coming in the chapter.
The book closes with discussion questions, a glossary, and a Did You Know section. Because of these additions the book would be a good choice for homeschooling or traditional school reading groups.
Sally Skunkskin, and the other books in the Oakwoods series, would make a great addition to the early reader section of a K-12 Christian school library.
I received a complimentary copy of Sally Skunkskin. This is my honest review.
June 10, 2025
Sweet moral tale for children
This is a very sweet children’s story many adults could get a lot out of with an excellent moral. The worksheet, glossary, and facts list at the end are wonderful additions. The illustrations also are really, really adorable. All in all very well done.
This is a very sweet children’s story many adults could get a lot out of with an excellent moral. The worksheet, glossary, and facts list at the end are wonderful additions. The illustrations also are really, really adorable. All in all very well done.
June 11, 2025
Book Review: Sally Skunkskin: Grumbles to Grateful
A Whiff of Wisdom Wrapped in Whimsy
As an avid reader of children’s literature that nurtures character growth, Sally Skunkskin: Grumbles to Grateful charmed me with its perfect blend of humor and heart. Kathy J. Perry’s storytelling, paired with Claudia Gadotti’s vibrant illustrations, creates a world where emotional transformation feels as tangible as the pages themselves.
Why It Delighted Me
Sally’s journey from prickly pessimism to grateful grace resonated deeply. Perry masterfully captures the universal struggle of shifting perspectives—especially for young readers navigating big emotions. One spread where Sally’s grumbles visually dissolve into gratitude symbols (no spoilers!) literally made me smile aloud. Gadotti’s art elevates the text with expressive details; Sally’s evolving body language alone tells a silent story of growth.
The book’s pacing strikes a delicate balance: quick enough to hold wiggly listeners’ attention, yet slow-burning in its emotional payoff. Themes of self-awareness and empathy unfold organically, never feeling preachy. As an adult reader, I appreciated the subtle nods to how environment shapes attitude—a layer that makes this rewarding for shared reading.
Constructive Notes
-Rhythm Variability: Some stanzas flow more smoothly than others; a tighter lyrical consistency could enhance read-aloud magic.
-Supporting Cast Depth: Secondary characters feel slightly underdeveloped—expanding their roles might enrich Sally’s relational growth.
-Discussion Prompts: While the story stands strong, back-matter questions (like Perry’s other works) could further bridge fiction to real-life application.
Why It Lingers
This isn’t just a “be grateful” lesson—it’s an invitation to witness how small mindset shifts can color one’s entire world. The ending leaves space for readers to reflect on their own “grumbles,” making it a timeless tool for caregivers and educators.
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for the electronic copy. Fans of The Grumpy Monkey or Pout-Pout Fish will adore Sally’s transformative tale.
Rating: 4.7/5 (A sparkling addition to character-driven children’s lit—would shine brighter with slightly polished pacing.)
Note: Perry’s background as an educator shines through in Sally’s authentic emotional arc, while Gadotti’s illustrations—reminiscent of her acclaimed poster work—burst with playful warmth.
A Whiff of Wisdom Wrapped in Whimsy
As an avid reader of children’s literature that nurtures character growth, Sally Skunkskin: Grumbles to Grateful charmed me with its perfect blend of humor and heart. Kathy J. Perry’s storytelling, paired with Claudia Gadotti’s vibrant illustrations, creates a world where emotional transformation feels as tangible as the pages themselves.
Why It Delighted Me
Sally’s journey from prickly pessimism to grateful grace resonated deeply. Perry masterfully captures the universal struggle of shifting perspectives—especially for young readers navigating big emotions. One spread where Sally’s grumbles visually dissolve into gratitude symbols (no spoilers!) literally made me smile aloud. Gadotti’s art elevates the text with expressive details; Sally’s evolving body language alone tells a silent story of growth.
The book’s pacing strikes a delicate balance: quick enough to hold wiggly listeners’ attention, yet slow-burning in its emotional payoff. Themes of self-awareness and empathy unfold organically, never feeling preachy. As an adult reader, I appreciated the subtle nods to how environment shapes attitude—a layer that makes this rewarding for shared reading.
Constructive Notes
-Rhythm Variability: Some stanzas flow more smoothly than others; a tighter lyrical consistency could enhance read-aloud magic.
-Supporting Cast Depth: Secondary characters feel slightly underdeveloped—expanding their roles might enrich Sally’s relational growth.
-Discussion Prompts: While the story stands strong, back-matter questions (like Perry’s other works) could further bridge fiction to real-life application.
Why It Lingers
This isn’t just a “be grateful” lesson—it’s an invitation to witness how small mindset shifts can color one’s entire world. The ending leaves space for readers to reflect on their own “grumbles,” making it a timeless tool for caregivers and educators.
Thank you to the publisher and Goodreads Giveaways for the electronic copy. Fans of The Grumpy Monkey or Pout-Pout Fish will adore Sally’s transformative tale.
Rating: 4.7/5 (A sparkling addition to character-driven children’s lit—would shine brighter with slightly polished pacing.)
Note: Perry’s background as an educator shines through in Sally’s authentic emotional arc, while Gadotti’s illustrations—reminiscent of her acclaimed poster work—burst with playful warmth.
June 5, 2025
Super cute book. It has a great message about kindness, wonderful illustrations, and includes discussion questions. This would be perfect for a classroom. Won this in a Goodreads giveaway and definitely enjoyed it.
June 30, 2025
Charming tale with a wonderful story starring a skunk constantly complains and criticizes. Sally has no friends, but soon learns how to actually be a friend to her forest neighbor.
Special kudos the the illustrator for the magical drawings that bring this tale to life!
Recommend to any kids!
Special kudos the the illustrator for the magical drawings that bring this tale to life!
Recommend to any kids!
June 29, 2025
This is an author that my kids have enjoyed several books by. When I saw she was coming out with this new series we knew we had to read them all! So, when I got the chance to review them it was a no brainer! Of course we wanted to!
This series is super sweet. You get to meet some less than desirables. The animals that most people don’t like are the stars of this show. We’ve got a skunk and a bat just to name a few. Fun story, my mom actually has always wanted to have a pet skunk because her grandma did. I am not of the same persuasion.
When I was at our local homeschool conference this past spring I had the chance to chat with the author about this series. It was just coming out them and we discussed how we had read all of her others and couldn’t wait to read this one! Let me tell you a bit about each of the books and what we loved.
The artwork in these is amazing! I loved it. It was engaging for children but also timeless and reminded me of some other animal book series I’ve read.
Sally Skunkskin
Oh my. A skunk. They stink. Well, Sally might not smell like perfume but her stink is coming from a different source these days. Her stink is from all her grumbling. She’s always grumbling, never grateful. Nothing is good enough. There is always something to complain about.
Sally’s tongue is worse than her smell!
It’s not kind. It’s not polite. Really, it’s not much of anything but mean.
If you’re like me and sometimes have some kids who might need an attitude adjustment this book is a wonderful one for someone who can’t ever think of something nice or kind to say. They won’t want to be like the skunk who always grumbles. Thankfully Sally learns a lesson in being kind and grateful.
Recap
I hope you get the chance to read this whole series! It’s sweet and teaches some great leassons. If you do get the chance to read this series make sure you check out all the other wonderful books by this author. They will not dissapoint.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
This series is super sweet. You get to meet some less than desirables. The animals that most people don’t like are the stars of this show. We’ve got a skunk and a bat just to name a few. Fun story, my mom actually has always wanted to have a pet skunk because her grandma did. I am not of the same persuasion.
When I was at our local homeschool conference this past spring I had the chance to chat with the author about this series. It was just coming out them and we discussed how we had read all of her others and couldn’t wait to read this one! Let me tell you a bit about each of the books and what we loved.
The artwork in these is amazing! I loved it. It was engaging for children but also timeless and reminded me of some other animal book series I’ve read.
Sally Skunkskin
Oh my. A skunk. They stink. Well, Sally might not smell like perfume but her stink is coming from a different source these days. Her stink is from all her grumbling. She’s always grumbling, never grateful. Nothing is good enough. There is always something to complain about.
Sally’s tongue is worse than her smell!
It’s not kind. It’s not polite. Really, it’s not much of anything but mean.
If you’re like me and sometimes have some kids who might need an attitude adjustment this book is a wonderful one for someone who can’t ever think of something nice or kind to say. They won’t want to be like the skunk who always grumbles. Thankfully Sally learns a lesson in being kind and grateful.
Recap
I hope you get the chance to read this whole series! It’s sweet and teaches some great leassons. If you do get the chance to read this series make sure you check out all the other wonderful books by this author. They will not dissapoint.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
June 23, 2025
The Oakwoods Series charmed me with its sweet, woodland setting and delightful animal characters that reminded me of beloved favorites like Heartwood Hotel and The Adventures of TumTum and Nutmeg. Each story holds charming illustrations and short adventures with character-building themes, perfect for young readers—and for parents or educators looking for fiction that’s both wholesome and educational. I loved how the author weaves real-life animal facts into the stories, grounding the stories in nature and giving them an added layer of richness. We enjoyed the series as read-alouds in our home.
In Sally’s story, she wrestles with being cynical and using hurtful words. When she herself receives words that aren’t kind, she learns the value of being a friend, sharing a kind word and how to make new friends.
At the end of the book was a discussion guide that made reviewing the stories for comprehension and learning fun, a glossary for understanding big words, and a Did You Know? section of exciting, educational content that we enjoyed!
The stories aren’t just adorable—they’re purposeful and encouraging. I recommend The Oakwood’s Series to families, homeschoolers, and anyone looking for character-driven tales that spark wonder, teach truth and build strong morals.
Note: These stories are not faith-based.
* I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
In Sally’s story, she wrestles with being cynical and using hurtful words. When she herself receives words that aren’t kind, she learns the value of being a friend, sharing a kind word and how to make new friends.
At the end of the book was a discussion guide that made reviewing the stories for comprehension and learning fun, a glossary for understanding big words, and a Did You Know? section of exciting, educational content that we enjoyed!
The stories aren’t just adorable—they’re purposeful and encouraging. I recommend The Oakwood’s Series to families, homeschoolers, and anyone looking for character-driven tales that spark wonder, teach truth and build strong morals.
Note: These stories are not faith-based.
* I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.
June 25, 2025
Childrens Books are a great genre. Sally Skunkskin: Grumbles to Grateful by Kathy J. Perry is Book 1 in the Oakwoods Series. I have read a couple others in this series, although not in order. I am enjoying this series.
A Grumpy Skunk? YES that it the theme of this book. Sally is a Skunk who lives in the Woods with all the other Forest Animals. Sally is grumpy and rude to everyone she comes in contact with. Sally is taken aback when unkind words are spoken to her. Sally really begins to realize her grumpy and rudeness ways are hurtful, as she felt hurt when it happened to her. I really LOVE the message in this book. Rudeness can lead to bullying and teaching kids while they are young how to be kind and grateful to others is so important. The Discussion guide at the end of this book is a wonderful asset to the lesson being taught throughout the book. I HIGHLY recommend this book to families and Schools with young children. BEAUTIFUL BOOK!
A Grumpy Skunk? YES that it the theme of this book. Sally is a Skunk who lives in the Woods with all the other Forest Animals. Sally is grumpy and rude to everyone she comes in contact with. Sally is taken aback when unkind words are spoken to her. Sally really begins to realize her grumpy and rudeness ways are hurtful, as she felt hurt when it happened to her. I really LOVE the message in this book. Rudeness can lead to bullying and teaching kids while they are young how to be kind and grateful to others is so important. The Discussion guide at the end of this book is a wonderful asset to the lesson being taught throughout the book. I HIGHLY recommend this book to families and Schools with young children. BEAUTIFUL BOOK!
July 22, 2025
I want to thank Kathy J. Perry, author and Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the eBook Kindle copy of Sally Skunkskin: Grumbles to Grateful ~ Oakwoods ~ Book 2 that I won in the Giveaway.
Sally goes out every night to find food and each time she encounters another animal, she grumps at them, for example she tells beaver to stop building his home that is making a pond behind his dam. She realizes that she has no friends. Then she meets Sneaks and Boom a snake and a vulture; they are both nice to her. Boom gives her hints how to make friends and she changes.
It takes a friend to make a friend and as Sally learns this, she becomes grateful not just for her friends but her home, the food she finds and is much happier. Great lesson for children to learn using this book to give them examples of good social skills to learn.
Sally goes out every night to find food and each time she encounters another animal, she grumps at them, for example she tells beaver to stop building his home that is making a pond behind his dam. She realizes that she has no friends. Then she meets Sneaks and Boom a snake and a vulture; they are both nice to her. Boom gives her hints how to make friends and she changes.
It takes a friend to make a friend and as Sally learns this, she becomes grateful not just for her friends but her home, the food she finds and is much happier. Great lesson for children to learn using this book to give them examples of good social skills to learn.
May 1, 2025
Author Kathy J. Perry and illustrator Claudia Gadotti, “Sally Skunkskin, Grumbles to Grateful.”
Sally Skunkskin can be a little prude and rude when interacting with other forest animals. As she navigates her interactions with a beaver, coyotes, foxes, and even a helpful snake named Sneaks, will readers witness her gradual transformation, or will she remain the same? I highly recommend this book, which delivers a powerful message about the importance of manners, understanding, and empathy. With engaging illustrations and supplemental fun facts, everyone will enjoy this tale learning valuable lessons and much more. The glossary at the end is a nice touch, making this book both educational and entertaining—a perfect choice for homes and classrooms.
Sally Skunkskin can be a little prude and rude when interacting with other forest animals. As she navigates her interactions with a beaver, coyotes, foxes, and even a helpful snake named Sneaks, will readers witness her gradual transformation, or will she remain the same? I highly recommend this book, which delivers a powerful message about the importance of manners, understanding, and empathy. With engaging illustrations and supplemental fun facts, everyone will enjoy this tale learning valuable lessons and much more. The glossary at the end is a nice touch, making this book both educational and entertaining—a perfect choice for homes and classrooms.
June 27, 2025
What a fun and refreshing book that teaches children in directly how to make friends despite their differences. To watch Sally Skunkskin grow from a grumbler to a grateful skunk that appreciates her friends makes this gem is one you’d want for your bookshelf. Whether your child struggles to make friends, or if they know a child who is a bit haughty or difficult to be nice with, these chapters bring valuable social skill lessons everyone can benefit from and help them be sensitive or empathetic when personality differences play a part in their lives.
My nine-year-old who loves animal books read this in a day and talks of how enjoyable it was. In her words, “It wasn’t boring, and it made me laugh a few times.”
My nine-year-old who loves animal books read this in a day and talks of how enjoyable it was. In her words, “It wasn’t boring, and it made me laugh a few times.”
June 25, 2025
These are very cute books. Each one portrays an animal interacting with the other animals around it, and learning character lessons. One learns to be diligent, another to be thankful, and another to be humble. The pictures are delightful. Young children who like animals will love these stories. My youngest is one of those animal lovers. I read her one of these books, and she told me at the end that she loved the way the animals worked together, and their relationship. That one happened to be a bit of a romance, which she loves. I’m saving the other ones for reading to her later, when we’re traveling.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews