Skunk and Badger, by Amy Timberlake

Today I have a kid’s book to share with you, and it is SUCH a treat. I loved it.

Skunk and Badger, by Amy Timberlake, pictures by Jon Klassen (of I Want My Hat Back), is a chapter book geared at readers from grades 2-5. I think it would be a really fun read aloud story for kids younger than that also, and also for everyone else because books are for everybody and this is a gem.

This book starts by introducing us to Badger, who likes rocks and everything in its right place. His life is turned around on page one, when Skunk shows up as a new roommate that Badger was not expecting to have!

Adventures, chaos, disruption, conversation, understanding, goofs, and friendship ensue and it is an absolute treat to read.

I adore the writing style, that is at once clear and concise and witty, while also perfectly descriptive. As a short beginner chapter book the story flows quickly, and is broken up well. It is full of banter, inner dialogue where sometimes Badger gets a bit sassy, and clever expressive dialogue that younger readers will understand and laugh about, and older readers and grown ups will really enjoy.

Here’s a snippet I particularly loved in the first chapter,

“The red suitcase would be popped open to reveal something guaranteed to change everything.”

Can you even? I love it. Such intrigue. Great stuff. Clearly there is fun to be had.

I don’t want to give away what happens after that. It’s a charming unexpected adventure that you will not be able to predict. It gave me Frog and Toad vibes, with a smidge of Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox style. Great combination.

The illustrations are perfect. There’s not a lot of them, but they give exactly the right tone for these characters. I really hope we get to have more adventures with them before too much longer. Those of you who recognize Jon Klassen from his picture book, I Want My Hat Back, will be delighted to see that the sharp cleverness of that book and his style is also present in Skunk and Badger.

This is a great book and would be a perfect addition to any reader’s library. I grinned the whole time and have a big soft spot for the grumpy badger who finds room in his crusty little heart filled with rocks for a new friend.

It’s absolutely delightful and so charming. I hope you go get it.

Skunk and Badger is out now and can be found wherever you get your books.

**Thank you to Algonquin Books for my review copy! All opinions are my own.