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Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers: Celebrating Animal Underdogs

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Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers: Celebrating Animal Underdogs
Written by Melissa Stewart
Illustrated by Stephanie Laberis
Peachtree Publishers, 2018. Informational Picture Book.

Stewart has chosen lesser-known animals with unique traits and described how these traits are actually helping them to survive! Etruscan pygmy shrews, hoatzin birds, and the okapi are just some of the animals introduced that I had never heard of.

Stewart's inspiring dedication inside the book reads "For any child who is being bullied right now--what others see as a weakness may actually be your strength. Don't give up."

This book can be a springboard for discussion with multiple age groups. At first glance these interesting traits may not seem important, but when looked at in a different light, some traits can be the difference between life and death. It can be empowering for children to realize everyone has different skills and personalities and that is what makes this world a great place to live! 

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