A Squash and a Squeeze

What do our readers think of A Squash and a Squeeze? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy the funny farm animals, colourful pictures and repeated rhymes, and many like joining in with the familiar refrain. Some children find it less exciting than other Julia Donaldson stories, although the playful farmyard chaos still makes it enjoyable to share.

What does the Pageticker team say about A Squash and a Squeeze?

We love the lively rhyme, memorable refrain of A Squash and a Squeeze; add in Axel Scheffler’s expressive farmyard illustrations and you have a brilliant story to read aloud and join in with. Its gentle message about appreciating what you have is easy for young children to explore, while the growing chaos provides plenty of humour.

Genres

What is A Squash and a Squeeze about?

When a woman complains that her house is far too small, a wise old man suggests bringing in her farm animals! With a cow, goat, pig and hen all squeezed inside, chaos unfolds. But when the animals finally leave, the woman realises her house is just the right size after all. Julia Donaldson’s lively rhymes and Axel Scheffler’s colourful artwork make this a funny and heart-warming tale about appreciating what you have.

About the author

Julia Donaldson is a much-loved British author who has written many wonderful books for children. She is best known for creating 'The Gruffalo', a story about a clever mouse and a magical creature. Julia often works with illustrator Axel Scheffler to bring her fun and imaginative stories to life.

Discussion ideas around A Squash and a Squeeze

The little old lady’s feelings: Why do you think the little old lady feels unhappy with her house at the beginning, and what helps her see it differently?

Farmyard chaos: Which animal causes the most trouble in the house, and what makes you think that?

A change of view: How can adding more things sometimes help us appreciate what we already have?

Rhyme and repetition: How does the repeated phrase about a ‘squash and a squeeze’ make the story more fun to hear and join in with?

Making space: If you had to invite one animal into your home for a day, which would you choose and how would you make room for it?