September 8, 2014
Photographer Rose’s photographs of squirrels interacting with miniature props of her own making earned her a following on the photo website Flickr. Now, she crafts a picture-book narrative around several such photos, introducing Mr. Peanuts, a “rather unusual squirrel” who is seen tending to a miniature gas grill, playing a tiny piano (“His favorite piece is Moonlight Sonata. Most squirrels would find that piece quite difficult to play”), reading, and tidying up before the arrival of Cousin Squirrel. Images of twigs frame several photos, which show Mr. Peanuts and his cousin “playing” chess, dining at a picnic table (with a cocktail umbrella for shade), and enjoying a cake topped with acorns. “ will inspect and explore anything if peanuts are involved,” Rose says in a q&a at book’s end, explaining how she has created a photo studio for her miniature scenes off her house’s deck. The storyline is little more than a vehicle to showcase Rose’s photos, but those images should pique the interest of casual readers and prospective photographers, who can try the wildlife photography tips she offers. Ages 3–6. Agent: Jackie Kaiser, Westwood Creative Artists.
June 4, 2018
Rose, whose staged squirrel photographs first gained popularity through social media, offers her fourth outing to feature furry backyard visitors. Mr. Peanuts, a school bus driver, and Rosie, a teacher, are preparing for the school year. In Rosie’s classroom, the two unpack books, hang a welcome banner, post classroom rules, and set up the art corner. The story’s allure lies in the squirrels’ seemingly natural presence within the carefully constructed miniature scenes—an effect achieved, an appended note explains, “by hiding peanuts in and around the props.” Ages 4–8.