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Stikki the Squirrel

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‘Finalist winner in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards 2024/25’

‘We must always be wary of the longlegs for they are unpredictable and puzzling.’

Join Stikki on his madcap adventures as he leaves his nest and sets off to explore the world around him. Mischievous and a little reckless, Stikki manages to get himself into scrapes at almost every turn.

When Stikki and his sisters, Mollie and Tia, venture out of their familiar surroundings for the first time, life changes dramatically for our little explorers.

Danger and peril lay on their chosen path — and, as with every exciting adventure, there are spills and thrills and good friends to be made along the way.

A whimsical, heartfelt story of friendship, bravery and love for each other.

200 pages, Paperback

First published May 28, 2023

2 people are currently reading
4 people want to read

About the author

Jane H. Wood

3 books95 followers
Jane H Wood, is an award-winning multi-genre author. Born in the UK, Jane enjoys reading, creative art, and photography. Jane admits she loves tea and cupcakes. On a more serious note, Jane is an animal rights advocate and environmentalist.

Stikki the Squirrel, “Finalist Winner” in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards 2024/25
The results of the competition will be announced on April 1st, 2025.
The list of Finalist Winners:
https://www.thewsa.co.uk/finalists2024/
.
Stikki the Squirrel, wins a silver, Recommended Read Award:
https://authorshout.com/2024-reader-r...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star Review from:
https://readersfavorite.com/book-revi...

GoldenEars: The Pale Skulls #2
“Recommended Read” Award Winner in Author Shout’s 2022 Book Contest.
Fiction-animals, Literary fiction, Mystery, Family-drama. Friendships.
https://authorshout.com/2022-reader-r...

This is a recent review found on NetGalley.co.uk
Review of: GoldenEars: The Pale Skulls.
Awarded ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Reviewer: Aishling K
https://www.netgalley.co.uk/book/2250...

GoldenEars: The Whispering Mountain #1
Wins a silver, “Recommended Read” Award in Author Shout’s 2022 Book Contest.

GoldenEars: The Pale Skulls#2.
5 Star Review and Emblem Winner Awarded by Stellar Media Club.
Awarded ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star Review from https://readersfavorite.com/book-revi...


⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star Review: https://readersfavorite.com/book-revi...
“The Whispering Mountain ( GoldenEars #1 )”
Animal fiction adventure. Middle grade to adult readers.
For the love of wolves. Heartwarming and thrilling.

New Book Coming in February 2026.
Join Stikki the Squirrel on his second adventure. Title: Stikki the Squirrel: Tree Spirits. For children aged 8 - 12 years and upwards.
Fun, excitement and magic.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Bernard Jan.
Author 12 books226 followers
April 3, 2023
To make one thing clear, I usually do not read children’s literature. But I do read animal fiction, and I have read two previous (AMAZING!) YA GoldenEars books by Jane H. Wood, so volunteering to be her early reader of Stikki the Squirrel was a logical thing to do.

I had a good feeling while waiting for an ARC to drop in my mailbox and after reading Stikki, that good feeling remained. Stikki met all my expectations. Just like GoldenEars, it enchanted me with beautiful and detailed descriptions of Stikki’s world and environment. But what blew me away are thirty-five fantastic illustrations drawn by the author herself. Jane H. Wood is more than just a writer that can capture your heart with her books, but also a masterful artist with a skill to make her stories visually attractive as well.

Stikki is too adorable (the squirrel) / (the book), and if you are not a huge fan of children’s books, worry not. All honest readers, no matter their age, who have their hearts and minds open to understanding and appreciating the wonders of the natural world that surround us can easily read this story. And we better preserve it so Stikki and his friends can keep entertaining us and future generations for many years to come.

Wonderful, heart-warming, tender, loveable. What’s not to like about it?

As I already mentioned, I have received an advance review copy from the author at no cost and with no obligations toward the author.
Profile Image for Jane Wood.
Author 3 books95 followers
September 27, 2025
This is my book. I won't review my own book, but instead I will use this space to include a copy of an Editorial Review my book Stikki the Squirrel received recently from Readers' Favorite. July 6th, 2023.

BOOK REVIEW
Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite. Awarded 5 Stars.

Stikki the Squirrel by Jane H. Wood is about a brave and clever gray squirrel capable of defeating many threats. This children's book is set in the quiet gardens of a small town in the heart of Wales. Stikki and his two sisters, Mollie and Tia, were born one morning in early spring. When Stikki grew into a handsome young squirrel, he loved to admire his beautiful tail. He and his sisters couldn't wait for their mother to allow them to go outside. When Jubilation Day arrived, they were excited to go on their first excursion outside the nest. Stikki was fascinated with the world, little creatures, and the new sights and smells he discovered each day he went outside. Yet, the harsh winter came, a dangerous season for squirrels, then his sister got lost, and Stikki was forced to perform his first act of bravery.

I loved the book's vibe, writing style, and black-and-white pencil drawings. Stikki the Squirrel by Jane H. Wood is a charming and inspiring book that has an important message of bravery and courage in facing danger. Children will be captivated by this heartwarming story and the adventures of Stikki and his friends. Don't miss out on this delightful adventure of fun, mystery, danger, and peril. You're about to meet a hedgehog, a toad, a cat, a red squirrel, birds, dangerous creatures, Stikki's mate, and the good friends he makes along the way. A wonderful gift for a child who admires these little explorers: squirrels.
Stikki the Squirrel is such a fun read that I had to read it again. Humorous and enchanting. Meet Stikki and his friends.
Profile Image for James Murray.
Author 17 books61 followers
October 28, 2025
A Classic YA Adventure!

Stikki the Squirrel is a heartwarming, wholesome YA adventure story that will appeal to young and old alike. I wish I had this one to read to my grandchildren when they were younger, and I’m sure they would have re-read it after they had mastered that skill themselves.
Stikki is such a mischievous character who gets into trouble often with his inquisitive squirrel nature but has the best luck and skill for surviving those adventures unscathed.
I loved how author Jane Wood used her drawing talents along with her writing skills to illustrate the chapters along the way to enjoy the story even more.
It was interesting how the author brought each animal character to life with their very distinctive personalities, and I loved the imaginative names the author gave to each of the animal characters. The names made me smile and even chuckle at times.
I highly recommend this adventure book to stimulate, educate, and entertain the young mind as well as us older folks who are still young at heart.
Profile Image for Tracey Gerrard.
Author 10 books69 followers
July 14, 2023
A beautiful adventure story!
Stikki the Squirrel is a delightful and beautiful written book. It tells the story of a young squirrel and his two sisters Tia and Mollie as they venture out into the big wide world, exploring the woodlands and the creatures that live among it as well as getting into mischief. There are some amazing illustrations along the way that the talented author drew herself.
This is a wonderful story that will appeal to all ages. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Marcia Clayton.
Author 7 books54 followers
November 9, 2023
This is a lovely story about a grey squirrel called Stikki and his two sisters, Tia and Mollie as they venture out into the world on their own. As they explore the woodlands they come across other creatures that live there and also get into mischief. There are some beautiful illustrations drawn by the author, which make the book all the more enjoyable. It is a fascinating story that will appeal to all ages and one that I enjoyed.
Profile Image for S.S. Saywack.
Author 9 books36 followers
November 2, 2023
A delightful middle-grade read following the adventures of Stikki, and his sisters Mollie and Ria as they set out on a journey away from the safety of their mother. Some lovely illustrations accompany them on their often mischievous adventure and it’s a story that will appeal to all ages. I bought the book for my nephew’s children and having read it, I’m very sure they will enjoy it.
Profile Image for Josephine Wrightson.
Author 20 books104 followers
October 5, 2024
enjoyable

I don't normally read children or ya books, however, this is a good, well penned and beautiful story. Be brave little squirrel. Lol it was my first book by Jane.H.Wood and for anyone with children I would recommend it. They will love the battle and what the creatures do.
Profile Image for Lucas W Mayberry.
Author 3 books35 followers
November 22, 2024
A Cute Children’s Story - This story follows the life of Stikki the squirrel. From when he is born he is a cheeky mischievous squirrel who likes to play with his sisters, Mollie and Tia. But he proves he’s not just all fun and games when he rescues his little sister from a terrible fate. Then comes the time when he and his sisters have to leave the security and safety of their mother and go into the big wide world. They make their home in a forest but they soon find that it is in danger from the evil Longlegs (humans) and Stikki devises a rather unorthodox plan to protect his family and new forest friends from this threat. This is a fun and cute little children’s story and as is the case with most children’s stories this did carry a serious message about treating animals with respect and kindness. I read this to my son and we both enjoyed it immensely.
521 reviews30 followers
June 5, 2023
I'll start with the cover as this is what made me decide to read the book, even before I read the blurb. The story begins with a grey mother squirrel given birth to three babies, Mollie, Tia and a little boy Stikki.
Through the story we follow Stikki, his sisters, along with other woodland friends, doing what they can to save the woods. I have to say my favourite part, was near the end when all the woodland animals come together to stop the longlegs. That's all I will say, as I don't like spoiling a lovely story like this.
I would love to see what is instore for Stikki and Rella
Profile Image for Gail McGuire.
81 reviews12 followers
August 19, 2025
A Charming Adventure
Jane Wood’s stories that take readers into the hearts and minds of animals are not to be missed. I found Stikki’s story that followed him from childhood and time with his sweet family to the wild adventures of him making his way in the wider world to be engaging and charming. The heartwarming tale swept me up and kept me intrigued to the end. The world building immersed me in Stikki’s world, and I could picture each vivid scene. Even though the book is aimed at younger audiences, it is a delightful read for anyone. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Sara Silverburg.
1 review2 followers
November 26, 2025
Reading Stikki the Squirrel with my daughter was such a fun experience. She loved the adventure and kept wanting to know what Stikki would get into next. We could really feel the author’s love of animals throughout the story, which made it even sweeter. We laughed together at Stikki’s silly moments and enjoyed the book from start to finish. It made our reading time really special!!

Will definitely check out more by this author.
Profile Image for Carrie O’Leary.
Author 8 books86 followers
September 29, 2023
Really enjoyed reading this delightful adventure of Stikki and his sisters and I know my grandsons will particularly enjoy the methodology of the battle scene towards the end! I do think that, perhaps, some of the words used are a little too complex for the intended age range, especially for the younger ones trying to read it alone, but other than that, I would highly recommend. Nicely done.
Profile Image for Sarah Jacobson.
Author 10 books28 followers
February 16, 2024
What an absolute delight

My son and I read this together, and we absolutely adored Stikki. A great little read for adults and children alike, and with such beautiful illustrations too. Recommended.
Profile Image for Amanda Sheridan.
Author 8 books168 followers
June 13, 2024
This lovely children’s book is a story about Stikki, a young squirrel, and his two sisters. As soon as they are grown to adulthood, they leave their mother and venture out into the world where many wonderful experiences await them as well as all sorts of hazards. They encounter cats, foxes and birds of prey. They relish the warmth of summer where there is plenty of food to sustain them through the endure the cold snow of winter. But it is only when they venture further away that the real dangers become apparent, and Stikki has to use all his skills and courage to help his kin.
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,654 reviews430 followers
December 3, 2025
Stikki the Squirrel follows a young grey squirrel who tumbles his way through one adventure after another. The story starts with his birth and early life high in the sycamore tree, then quickly spins into a mix of funny accidents, curious discoveries, close calls, family trouble, and moments of surprising bravery. Stikki explores gardens, meets odd critters, picks fights with birds, gets stuck in nearly everything, battles winter storms, saves his sisters, confronts dangerous cats, and even wanders far past home, where he meets new friends and learns how big and strange the world can be. It’s a lively travelogue of a squirrel who never stops bouncing from one situation to the next.

I found myself laughing when Stikki blundered into those slugs, toppled into the pond, or freaked out over his sisters building that giant snow creature. The writing feels soft and warm at times, especially when the family snuggles together for winter, and then suddenly it turns chaotic with chases and scuffles. I loved how the author gave the animals such strong personalities. Mollie’s bossy. Tia’s sweet. Stikki’s curious to the point of being ridiculous. The mix made the whole story feel alive and, honestly, pretty cute.

Some parts pulled me in more than I expected. When the cats attacked, I got tense and sat there rooting for this tiny squirrel who thinks he’s invincible. And when Stikki got lost, the mood hit differently. I felt a little knot of worry, like oh no, this goofy fluffball has really messed up this time. The book swings between silly and heartfelt, and I enjoyed that balance. It kept me flipping pages because I genuinely wanted to know what trouble he’d get into next. Also, the world feels cozy even when it’s dangerous. The writing paints the gardens, trees, snow, and forest in a way that makes me want to sit outside and watch real squirrels do their thing.

I’d say this children's book is great for younger readers who like animal stories filled with adventure and gentle humor. It also works for adults who enjoy a light, warmhearted tale that doesn’t take itself too seriously. If you want something sweet, lively, and packed with small emotional moments, Stikki the Squirrel hits that spot nicely.
466 reviews32 followers
January 8, 2024
"Stikki the Squirrel" by Jane H. Wood invites readers into a captivating world through the eyes of Stikki and his two sisters, Mollie and Tia, as they embark on an adventurous journey beyond their familiar nest. Wood's storytelling talent shines through as she beautifully illustrates the escapades of these curious squirrels exploring the woodlands and encountering various creatures along the way.

The heartwarming tale not only entertains but also carries essential themes of bravery, friendship, and family bonds. Through Stikki's mischievous yet endearing nature, young readers learn the value of taking risks tempered with responsibility and looking out for loved ones. Wood effortlessly weaves these life lessons into an engaging narrative that sparks the imagination.

What truly sets this book apart are the vivid illustrations crafted by the author, enhancing the story's charm and making it an enjoyable read for audiences of all ages. The descriptions vividly bring to life the woodland setting, allowing readers to immerse themselves in Stikki's world and root for the courageous squirrel and his companions.

The theme of unity among woodland creatures facing common threats, especially the clever strategy against the intimidating 'longlegs,' adds depth to the storyline. This clever twist in the plot showcases bravery, teamwork, and the importance of collective action, making it a delightful and thought-provoking element within the narrative.

"Stikki the Squirrel" is a delightful journey into the wild, encouraging a love for adventure, respect for nature, and a sense of responsibility towards one another. With its charming storytelling, relatable characters, and wholesome themes, this book is a heartwarming addition to any reader's collection. Both children and adults alike will find joy in this whimsical tale that celebrates the beauty of friendship, courage, and the wonders of the great outdoors.
Author 16 books25 followers
June 14, 2024
"Stikki the Squirrel" by Jane H. Wood is a charming and heartwarming story that appeals to both kids and grown-ups. The book follows the adventures of Stikki, Mollie, and Tia, three lovable squirrel siblings, as they face challenges and meet different creatures. Through the story, readers learn about the lives of squirrels, from survival skills to relationships, and gain important lessons about being responsible and showing compassion.

While some words may be difficult for younger readers, the engaging storyline and meaningful messages make it a delightful book. The exciting battle scene towards the end is sure to capture children's attention. "Stikki the Squirrel" is a fantastic addition to any child's book collection and a joy for parents to read with their kids. It is highly recommended for older children and adults who enjoy a well-written story.
Profile Image for Helen Huber.
Author 4 books14 followers
July 3, 2025
Amusing tale for kids and the young at heart

This charming book is illustrated with the author’s own delicate drawings, and the picture of Brodboar the badger with Stikki is particularly delightful in its whimsy. From the moment they first venture from the nest until leaving home to make their own way in the world, we join Stikki and his sisters on a series of comical escapades and hair-raising adventures, with the coming-of-age story arc highlighting the importance of family and friends. The author’s keen observations of grey squirrel antics are entertainingly spot-on, and the scatological humour is sure to captivate young readers. Although it’s handled subtly, a moral dilemma underlies the story’s last quarter, which questions the ethics of protecting endangered species at the expense of others, yet the tale’s conclusion will gratify its target readership. A lovely little book.
491 reviews10 followers
June 19, 2023
𝕊𝕥𝕚𝕜𝕜𝕚 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕢𝕦𝕚𝕣𝕣𝕖𝕝
By Jane H. Wood

This is a lovely little book that follows Stikki and his sisters on his adbentures, exploring his immediate environment and also being brave and venturing into the woods and unknown buildings where the long legs roam.

Stikki soon realises the consequences of taking risks, but he also understands the importance of looking out for his family when things get a little tough.
Stikki makes new friends along the way, and he soon matures into a very reliable squirrel!

🥰 Family
❤️ Bring brave
🌱 Preservation
🐾 Looking after one another
🌳 Adventure

It is a wonderful little book for the young ones who enjoy the outdoors and adventure.
Age 6-10 would love this book and those of us who are kids at heart.
Profile Image for Courtney Moore.
Author 2 books49 followers
April 26, 2023
‘Stikki the Squirrel’ is a delightful tale perfect for the younger audience. The story follows a juvenile male squirrel named Stikki as he sets on different adventures with his siblings beyond the comfort of home. He learns quickly about the new world beyond his tiny paws - sight, smells, and the longlegs (humans). There is a lot of life lessons, bonding, and friendship. Author Jane even included illustrations throughout the story that paints the scene for the reader. I highly recommend this cute novel for readers!

Note: I was provided and advanced readers copy from the publisher for an honest review.
Profile Image for D.G. Torrens.
Author 36 books170 followers
June 28, 2023
This was such a beautiful story. Stikky, a grey squirral and his sisters, Mollie and Ria, brave a new world away from their mother's saftey. They set out on a journey and have to learn to survive on their own. Their biggest fear are the longlegs (humans) amongst other wild life threats to their habitat and life. The story is beautifully written, so much so that I could visualise the woods and the animals not forgetting badger of course. There is a show down towards the end where all the woodland animals come up with a genius and funny plan to keep the longlegs away. I could see this book being made into a delightful disney movie. Highly recommeded read for adults and children alike.
193 reviews2 followers
August 10, 2023
What a super cute story! I haven’t read any books by Jane H. Wood before but I will definitely be reading her previous novels now!

Stikki has such beautiful detailed descriptions throughout the story drawing the reader in with perfect imagery. There are also fabulous illustrations throughout the book by Wood herself. The story is really heart warming and a brilliant read.

The character of Stikki is very sweet, the story is based on the natural world and it is an easy read for children of all ages. The tale touches on preservation and how we must look after the world so that the wonderful animals can still thrive.
Profile Image for Tanya Ross.
Author 2 books22 followers
March 20, 2025
This is an adorable story about Stikki, the squirrel, who steals the heart of the reader. We get to see the world through Stikki’s eyes—his adventures, challenges, growing pains, and friendships. His first challenge occurs when his sister squirrel gets lost, and he knows he has to be the one to find her. The rescue is endearing and a bit harrowing for Stikki. Toward the end of the book when Stikki and his friends dare to keep the “longlegs” (humans) from decimating their forest, he uses some very unusual ideas to keep their habitat safe. It’s entertaining and even giggle-worthy. I highly recommend this story for adults and kids.
Profile Image for Jane Suen.
Author 27 books857 followers
April 14, 2024
Stikki, the little grey squirrel, was born in a nest nestled in the branches of a sycamore tree in the gardens of a small town in the the heart of Wales, along with his two sisters, Mollie and Tia. The young squirrel was curious, an explorer venturing outside his home looking for the next exciting adventure. Along the way he encounters other creatures, including slimy things, a toad, hedgehog, birds, cats, fox, wild rabbits, pine marten, badger, other squirrels and enemies. A wonderful story with beautiful illustrations.
Profile Image for Natasha Murray.
Author 16 books18 followers
April 26, 2023
A Joyful Tale of a Young Squirrel Finding his Way in the World

Stikki the Squirrel was a delight to read. Young readers will not only enjoy Stikki's adventures but they will marvel at how beautifully written this story is. If you enjoy being in nature then the author, Jane Wood brings Stikki's surroundings alive and her descriptions are realistic and makes you smile. Her illustrations are lovely too. This five star book comes highly recommended for both young and old.
Profile Image for Naturalbri (Bri Wignall).
1,377 reviews119 followers
June 14, 2023
This is such a cute wee book. I loved the start, as we met the squirrel family and got to learn about how they lived and about the dangers in their lives. Stikki is an adorable squirrel and fun to follow along as he grows up.
I found the book reminiscent of the Potter tales, with the adventures being a bit like Peter and the troubles he found, but also coupled with the lessons he learned. It had that style, of sorts, making it a very nice book, but also meaning it was lots of fun to read along and flowed really well. We loved all the characters. Ada liked seeing the little sketches and asked me if she could draw pictures of the characters, after getting to know them in the book. She has currently taken the book, after we finished reading it together, so she can read it again, by herself. Clearly it has become a favourite in the house.
Profile Image for Elle Stockton.
Author 5 books66 followers
December 7, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this heartfelt book written from Stikki's point of view. It is very well written, offering moments of tenderness and love, as well as fear and terror, beauty and laughter. As much as I watch squirrels, the book offered me a whole new education and perspective on them.

This book should be found enjoyable by readers of all ages. Read it with your children and grandchildren. It's a great read! Highest recommendation.
Profile Image for Caroline Hurry.
Author 17 books65 followers
August 28, 2024
Nuts About Stikki! With gorgeous illustrative sketches, this enchanting romp encapsulates childhood wonder and Mother Nature's essence.
I adored Jane H. Wood’s GoldenEars series and Stikki, a curious young squirrel' captivates with his adventurous perspectives, thanks to the author’s engaging style, sweet sister characters, and lessons on family and friendship. Stikki the Squirrel deserves to become a timeless classic.
21 reviews4 followers
February 1, 2025
This is such an engaging tale aimed at children but I can tell you I enjoyed it as an adult. I wanted to check it out for my very young nieces and nephew and will be buying them the book when they have a couple more years on their shoulders and I know they will enjoy it. Kit squirrels growing into their personalities and learning how to survive. I really enjoyed this book with its serious message, it made me quite emotional.
Profile Image for Sarah Harry.
Author 6 books26 followers
March 24, 2023
Stikki the Squirrel by Jane H. Wood is a beautiful and hearfelt story about a young squirrels journey into the world and the many adventures he has along the way. Suitable for all ages, Stikki the Squirrel tells the story of the woodland creatures that live among us while also giving us a new perspective on the importance of saving the woodland and its creatures.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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