Book Review 2: A Squash and a Squeeze

A Squash and a Squeeze written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler is one of our favorite bedtime books.

When asked why she loves this book, Tala said, “It’s so funny!” Partly because of Daddy’s theatrical reading voice I’m sure!😅 Then she added, “My favorite character is the hen because she laid an egg.” Okaaaaay!😅 (Oh Tala, YOU are funny!😘😅)

This story is about an old lady complaining about how small her house feels. A wise old man and a few farm animals helped with her dilemma through some funny mishaps. In the end she realized that her house is just right for her.

Rhythmic and rhyming, with several lines being repeated throughout the story, this book is fascinating and easy to read. The detailed drawings of the old lady’s home and her farm animals are attractive and colorful. We would point out the animals and familiar items for Kaya to sign or try to say. Obviously we’ve read this book many times over that Tala has memorized parts of it already! She loves to pretend that she’s reading for Kaya!💕

As for me, I love that this book teaches about contentment and gratitude—something that I always have to practice because in reality, the Lord has already given us all that we need, and so much more. We just have to look at our situation from a different perspective. 🥰

Note for parent-teachers:
We can identify here the following character qualities

1. CONTENTMENT – realizing that true happiness does not depend on material conditions
2. GRATEFULNESS – letting others know by words and actions how they have benefited one’s life.

(Definitions came from Achieving True Success, How to Build Character as a Family–a must-have book for all homes!)

If you want to get a copy, you can order from Amazon in the link below.

A Squash and a Squeeze

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