Ready to Smile Again

Written by Katie Lee Reinert · Illustrated by Sara Aziz

A chipmunk's hoarding habit risks losing what truly matters. Can he let go to find joy again?

4.6/5 Goodreads · 71 ratings

32 pages

$18.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Dexter the chipmunk faces a dilemma when his home is destroyed. He hoards his remaining treasures in his cheeks, unable to smile or express gratitude. As the weight of his possessions grows, Dexter must decide what truly matters before he loses everything. Will he find the courage to let go and reconnect with his friends, or will his plan lead to unexpected chaos? This heartwarming tale explores themes of loss, resilience, and the true value of friendship, inviting readers to ponder what is truly worth holding onto.

From the publisher

When the trauma of being uprooted from home causes a grieving chipmunk to stash his remaining possessions inside his cheeks, he soon realizes that holding on to too much for too long might result in losing what matters most. When Dexter the chipmunk’s home is destroyed and his belongings scattered, he comes up with the perfect plan - stuff his most treasured possessions into his cheeks for safe-keeping. But his plan has one major flaw. Dexter can’t smile anymore . . . not with all the stuff in his mouth. He can’t thank any of his friends for their gifts, their help or their kindness either. One day, Dexter can’t take it anymore, and he finally tries to talk, with hilarious - but possibly disastrous - results. Combining humor, charming illustrations, and SEL themes of grieving, overcoming loss and helping others, Katie Lee Reinert and Sara Aziz craft a timeless story about value, significance, and what is truly worth holding onto. It will be a welcome addition to library and classroom shelves, in counseling offices, and as a gentle story time read at home.

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