Have you ever had a rough start to a friendship? Strawberry the Sasquatch can relate. After years of being on her own, an extremely friendly squirrel named Nutty shows up. After a series of hilarious mishaps, Strawberry isn’t sure she and Nutty can get along. But thanks to some cloud watching, seed portraits, and stale marshmallows, the two find a way to be friends.
Sasquatch and Squirrel is the new hilarious picture book from Chris Monroe, creator of the Monkey with a Tool Belt books.
What was your inspiration for the book?
The bad Sasquatch picture book I saw at a Sasquatch-themed store. I wanted a better one, so I thought I should try.
Why a squirrel?
A squirrel would be a great buddy if you could handle it.
What influenced you in working on this book?
The woods around here and the possibility of things going on all the time there that we never see.
What is the most surprising thing you discovered working on this book?
That you can’t really find out what Sasquatch actually looks like in books or on Google. Beyond the basics: furry, big feet, tall—it is all up to interpretation.
What do you hope readers will get from reading this book?
I hope they laugh.
Free Educator Resources
Strawberry the sasquatch and Nutty the squirrel are unique comedic characters. Introduce young readers to their personalities, likes, and dislikes with these free downloadable character sheets. Then ask students to create their own friendly character.
Praise for Sasquatch and Squirrel
“Plainly the beginning of a beautiful, if ouchy, friendship.” — Kirkus Reviews
Connect with Chris
Chris Monroe is an award-winning author, illustrator and cartoonist. Her picture books include the Monkey with a Tool Belt series, which inspired the Netflix series Chico Bon Bon: Monkey with a Tool Belt. She lives in Duluth, MN.
Photo Credit: Jack Rendulich
Upcoming events
Chris Monroe is coming to the Twin Cities! Join her for storytimes at these local bookstores:
May 13th – Chris Monroe will read Sasquatch and Squirrel at Wild Rumpus for their storytime at 11:00am. Find more information on the Wild Rumpus event page.
May 27th – Chris Monroe will be reading at Red Balloon at 10:30am. Please find more information and register for this event on the Red Balloon event page.
Learn more about Lerner’s amazing authors and illustrators on the Lerner blog!