Mr. Squirrel Finds a Treasure - Book Review

Mr. Squirrel Finds A Treasure, the third installment in Susan Marie Chapman’s series, is a heartwarming and educational tale set in Miami Beach’s Flamingo Park. The story follows three "BFFs"—Grumpy the Iguana, the Green Parrot, and Mr. Squirrel—as they navigate a stiflingly hot day that quickly turns into an urgent call to action for environmental stewardship.

The narrative begins when Mr. Squirrel discovers what he believes to be a "coveted treasure" hidden beneath a heavy rock. With the help of his friends, he uncovers the prize, only to find that plastic and animals simply do not mix. The "treasure" is actually a discarded plastic cup lid that becomes dangerously stuck on Mr. Squirrel's nose. After his friends rescue him, the trio observes that their home is a mess, filled with garbage building up quickly.  In a brilliant move, the Green Parrot leads a mission to collect the park's trash and spell out the word "STOP" on the ground to remind humans to be more careful with their waste.

This book teaches children that "one person’s trash is another person’s treasure" can be a dangerous misconception when it comes to the environment. It promotes an "Earth first" message, encouraging readers to reflect on behaviors that damage the beauty of the world and prove hazardous to wildlife. By cleaning up the area, the animal characters demonstrate how both humans and animals benefit from becoming good stewards of nature.

The book is ideal for a wide range of young readers. It is highly recommended for 3 to 5-year-olds as a read-aloud book, as well as independent readers in the 2nd to 3rd grades. Children will likely love the relatable and "super cute" animal characters, who bring both humor and heart to the tale.

Natalia Loseva’s illustrations are a highlight—clear, bold, and packed with expression—helping the story feel vivid for young readers. Her distinctive watercolor style sets the book apart from others in the genre. Through a gentle, accessible approach, the story helps children understand why our planet matters and how even small actions can have a real impact. Instead of making environmental issues feel scary, it makes them feel understandable and inviting. As a result, young readers are likely to stay engaged, ask questions, and feel motivated to learn more about the world around them. This book encourages curiosity, sparks meaningful conversations between kids and adults, and leaves families feeling inspired to care for the environment together.