Review: Dead Squirrrels Everywhere - Gabrielle Ferrara and Natalie Nova

Review: Dead Squirrels Everywhere - Gabrielle Ferrara and Illustrated by Natalia Nova - June 2022


"Dead Squirrels Everywhere" by Gabrielle Ferrara, with illustrations by Natalia Nova, is an adult picture book that takes a morbidly humorous approach to counting. This book is a quirky and darkly entertaining read that is definitely not suitable for children, unless you want to traumatize them with images of squirrels meeting various untimely ends. The concept of this book revolves around teaching counting to ten, but with a macabre twist – each number is associated with a squirrel's death in increasingly bizarre and unfortunate accidents.

From the first page, readers are greeted with an irreverent and darkly comedic tone. Ferrara’s text is straightforward and engaging, making it easy to follow along with the counting narrative. The repetition of the phrase "dead squirrels" alongside the counting creates a rhythmic and almost hypnotic reading experience. It's a playful and unexpected way to approach a counting book, ensuring that readers of a certain taste will be both amused and intrigued.

Natalia Nova’s illustrations are the true highlight of this book. Her artwork is vivid and detailed, capturing the absurdity and humor of each scenario with precision. The illustrations strike a perfect balance between the grotesque and the humorous, ensuring that while the subject matter is dark, it is presented in a way that is more amusing than disturbing. From squirrels drowning to those meeting their end by electrocution, each illustration is a visual treat that complements the text beautifully.

While "Dead Squirrels Everywhere" is undoubtedly a fun and unique read, it is crucial to remember that it is intended for an adult audience. The morbid humor and graphic illustrations are not suitable for children, and the book's charm lies in its ability to surprise and entertain adults with its offbeat approach to a seemingly innocent subject like counting.

In conclusion, "Dead Squirrels Everywhere" is a brilliantly illustrated and cleverly written adult picture book that offers a twisted take on counting. Ferrara and Nova have created a memorable and entertaining work that will appeal to those with a taste for dark humor. Just remember, no squirrels were harmed in the making of this book!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/4fefN9s