I just learned about a series of chapter books written for young readers which focus on character building. And fun. And humor. In fact, the author is a co-creator of VeggieTales which I imagine is quite telling.
But, this post isn’t really to tell you all about The Dead Sea Squirrels book series, though I won’t discourage you from doing that. I do want to tell you that Mike Nawrocki, co-creator of VeggieTales and the voice of Larry the Cucumber, and his team are working on bringing The Dead Sea Squirrels to life via an animated video series! Also working on the series are Tom Bancroft, renowned Disney Animator, and Steve Taylor, legendary producer, filmmaker, and recording artist!
The Opportunity
Sound like fun? Today, February 16, a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign is starting to fund the making of these videos. They are looking for 8,000 Founding Backers giving $25 each to fund each video. Granted, you can feel free to give more (or less) if you choose. The link above will provide you with more information.
The Stories
Let me tell you a little more about the books – which will be used to create the videos. Previews of the books are at the end of the post.
Book One: Squirreled Away
Mike Nawrocki, co-creator of VeggieTales, is back! In the first installment of this hilarious new chapter-book series, ten-year-old Michael and his friend Justin sneak into the Dead Sea caves near the archaeological dig where Michael’s dad is working. Michael finds two 2,000-year-old squirrels petrified in sea salt. Hijinks ensue as Michael tries to bring them back to the U. S., hidden in his backpack. What Michael thinks are just cool souvenirs may turn out to be something much more! The Dead Sea Squirrels series is humorous, fun, and filled with character-building lessons.
Book Two: Boy Meets Squirrels
The Dead Sea Squirrels are alive! In book 2 of Mike Nawrocki’s hilarious new series, the two petrified squirrels Michael brought home from Israel are awake and ready to dive into the 21st century. Turns out, the squirrels lived during the time of Jesus and love sharing the lessons they learned from his teaching in their own quirky way. Missteps and misadventures abound as Merle and Pearl help Michael and his friends confront a bully, using lessons from the Sermon on the Mount.
Book Three: Nutty Study Buddies
The Dead Sea Squirrels are . . . actually pretty good at math! When Michael finds himself struggling through his math class, Pearl Squirrel offers to help him study, but will Michael accept Pearl’s assistance or head to the roller rink with his human friends? Michael learns the value of hard work.
Book Four: Squirrelnapped!
The Dead Sea Squirrels are missing! Well, Pearl is. Michael is enjoying his first Saturday of the school year, teaching Merle and Pearl to play soccer―in the house! A stray ball smashes his mom’s prized elephant lamp, and Michael sees the chance to lay blame on his little sister. He and the squirrels head to the park to play. When the man in the suit and sunglasses shows up and snatches Pearl, Michael’s friends and family band together to try to get her back! Michael learns the value of honesty.
Book Five: Tree-mendous Trouble
Fancy costumes, an upgraded hamster house, and a dinner invitation? Sounds like Merle and Pearl are really coming up in the world now that they’re settling into the 21st century. But maybe this invitation to share acorns with new friends isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. It’s another hilarious adventure with Merle and Pearl as they learn that kindness counts, even when you’re facing your biggest (and fluffiest) nemesis.
Book Six: Whirly Squirrelies
What do homework, Michael’s new favorite video game, and a pair of drones have in common? They’re all competing for the gang’s attention. Join Michael, Merle, and Pearl for some high-flying adventures as they learn that self-control might save your grades . . . and your friends.
Follow the Squirrels
If you choose, you can follow the squirrels on social media (of course!) Here are the links:
Giveaway
I’d love to have you comment with your thoughts. I will select a random commenter from North America (sorry – it’s too expensive to ship elsewhere) to receive the current complete book series. But be sure to comment soon – the drawing will end February 23 at 5 pm Eastern Time.
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