You  might know who some of the biggest or strongest animals are, but what about the smallest or slowest? Do you know which animal is so stinky, it smells worse than cow manure? Well, it’s time to celebrate these underdogs in the animal world! Take a lighthearted look at the surprising traits that help some animals survive in Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers: Celebrating Animal Underdogs.

Written with a lively, engaging voice, this nonfiction picture book introduces young readers to a variety of animals that might be known for more negative-sounding qualities, like being “lazy” or “clumsy.” Using humorous yet informative text, award-winning author Melissa Stewart explains how these characteristics that might seem like weaknesses actually can be critical for survival in the animal kingdom. Stephanie Laberis’s bright, bold—and scientifically accurate—illustrations add to the fun. While offering interesting facts about real animals, this book also provides a gentle message of understanding and celebrating differences found in everyone, human or animal.

Starting September 1 we will be introducing some of these fascinating animals and what makes them so special. Follow along on Twitter and Instagram to meet some animal underdogs from Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers!

“Friendly and approachable, this compendium is sure to create some new favorites in the animal kingdom.” —Kirkus Reviews

“The point that every animal, no matter how seemingly weak, has ‘its own special way of surviving’ is effectively made. The narrative also offers discussion-encouraging questions, and the lively painted portraits depict the animals fairly realistically, placing them in simplified natural settings, sometimes with a humorous touch.” —Booklist

 Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers is going on a blog tour next week! Don’t miss the stops along the way!
Librarian’s Quest
Pragmatic Mom
Great Kid Books
Nonfiction Detectives
Mrs. Knott’s Book Nook

Find Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers on Amazon or at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble September 1! And be sure to check out the Teacher’s Guide, Readers Theater, and Meet the Animal Underdogs: Vital Stats and Map resources.

But what are some ways to use a title like this in the library, classroom, or home?

In addition to your favorite bloggers (like Two Writing Teachers, who include Beneath the Sun in their 10 Math and Science Topic Choice Mentors for read alouds and writing prompts) and Pinterest searches, the Peachtree website and blog shares some great resources, too.

We’ve shared a Teacher Guide for Beneath the Sun as well as Melissa Stewart’s other titles When Rain Falls  and Under the Snow. (Check out all of our Teacher Guides here.)  If you really want the book to come alive, consider doing a Readers Theater, script available here.

Stewart also shares a wealth of fabulous activities on her Science Clubhouse Website for teachers, librarians, booksellers, and homeschoolers, including a Teacher Guide and Mini Video Lesson. Speaking of your favorite bloggers, check out Stewart’s Celebrate Science Blog for innovative resources for teaching science and tips for writing nonfiction. She’s on Pinterest, too, and shares plenty of teaching ideas and resources for using the title in the classroom.

What are you favorite bloggers and resources?