A Picture Book a Day for a Year: Day 160

Picture Book: Squeak’s Good Idea

Author: Max Eilenberg

Illustrator: Patrick Benson

Summary: Squeak’s good idea is to go outside. No one else in his family is interested, but he’s willing to go it alone. Because he is a cautious fellow and in case the weather turns bad, he puts on his mittens, jacket, scarf, hat, raincoat, warm pants, extra socks, and carries an umbrella. He thinks he might get hungry so he packs a picnic lunch. It takes him a while, but finally he is ready. In his bundled state, he steps outside and slowly discovers the beauty of nature and the fine weather so he peels off his extra clothes. About that time, his family joins him for the picnic. He’s prepared enough food for all of them. “It’s lucky to be on the safe side,” Squeak declares. They all agree.

Hanna’s Comments: This is a silly story of over preparation and the daring of a young character to risk going into the unknown alone even if that unknown is just outside his house. You can’t help but love Squeak’s caution and determination. I’m glad he gets affirmed by his family in the end. He obviously wanted them to come with him all along, but he still ventured outside on his own.

Publisher & Date of Publication: Candlewick Press, 2001

Age & Grade Appropriateness: 2 and up, Toddler and up

# of Pages: 48

Available in Spanish? Not at present

Formats other than Book: None at present

PBT Category: Post 2K

PBT Topics this Book Connects with: action, adaptation/assimilation, adventure, affirmation, anxiety/worry, armor, bravery/courage, clothes/shoes, comfort, commitment, the environment/nature, family, feasting/food/hunger/nutrition, God’s presence, journeys/pilgrimages/migrations/quests, joy, mission, perseverance, preparation/preparing, presence, protecting/protection, rain, risking, security, weather   

Scripture Connections: God’s presence with the Israelites (Exodus 33:14); the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18); I am with you always (Matthew 28:20)

Idea(s) for Application: This would be a perfect book to read when teaching the “whole armor of God” verses in Ephesians or the broader concept of the Holy One being present with us at all times, no matter where we venture.