Out at last is the book that wraps up the Secret Animal Superpowers series (maybe), authored by me and hilariously illustrated by Bob Shea …
If you’re new to PBB, this one is #4 in a series about REAL animals with extraordinary behaviors unique to their species.
Horned Toads are actually lizards (and the Texas State Reptile), and this little guy can’t wait to tell readers about his many fabulous attributes. While writing this one I had to channel the voice of one of my Texas writer friends, because how could a Texas Toady not have a drawl? So fun to play around with.
While bringing to life a feisty Horned Toad was a blast, the fun intensified when he met up with a naive burrowing owl, fresh from two weeks in the burrow with its brothers and sisters. Look at these frowny cuties.
We learn how Toady has to sit in the sun to warm his body, how his pointy scales only make him look tough, what kind of vittles he eats (and who wants to eat him), his methods of defense, and that he only uses his superpower as a last resort. Here are a few random spreads, starting with Toady and Owlet’s meet cute.
I can’t reveal Toady’s superpower, but it’s gross enough to prompt a big “EW!” without making anybody lose their appetite. Oh, and just when Toady’s feeling relaxed with his new burrowing owl friend, he learns that toads and lizards are on their menu, too. Uh-oh.
Backmatter includes lots more facts about horned toads (technically, Texas Horned Lizards). Hope you’ll find a copy of HORNED TOAD HAS A SUPERPOWER (published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons) and check it out!
Giveaway! Giveaway! If you’d like the chance to win a copy of your very own, simply leave a comment below. I’ll choose a random name on May 29th, and book will be on its way to your door. Continental U.S. mailing addresses only, please.
Sooo interesting! And the owls are darling. I’m looking forward to reading the book and finding out what the superpower is. I love the illustrations, too–especially the bikes–so funny! And I had no idea states had state reptiles. Now I know that California’s is the desert tortoise and that only 28 states have one. Iowa does not.
I love this series! (And I don’t want it to end!) Can’t wait to giggle and geek out with Horned Toad (and a clueless owlet)!
Such a clever concept for this series. I can’t wait to learn what Horned Toad’s talent is. Burrowing owls are my favorites too. Congrats!
Can’t wait to read it, Jill!
Such a fun series!
Lots of humor and some interesting facts!
Congratulations!
Congrats, Jill! I can’t wait to find out Toad’s superpower!
How fun! I love this series! Congrats on the latest!
I love this series, Jill! You have me so curious to read about Horned Toad and find out what his super power is. Congratulations!!
Toadally awesome! Congrats Jill and Bob!
I love this series and am happy to hear there’s another book – I look forward to reading it!
Thanks for introducing me to these books! I am eager to check them out.
I’m thrilled that the horned toad is getting the attention he deserves!
More than 25 years ago we put our son on a plane so he could visit his grandparents in Texas. He proudly came home with a horned toad in a recycled container, with holes in it so the toad could breathe. I’ll look forward to learning more about this unique critter in your new book.
Looks fascinating! My grandkids have the first two in this series – and love them. I see another two in their futures.
Love love love this…I hope there are more!
Love it! I grew up in Arizona playing with horned toads! I bet I know which superpower he has! Congratulations!
I’m intrigued.
Congrats, Jill! Great series!
I love horned lizards (my daughter often sends me pics of them from her home in the desert). Thanks for writing a fun , but informative PB about them!
VERY fun!! Congrats, Jill!
Oh, Jill, your new book is so much fun…for kids AND adults! Congratulations!
Congrats Jill! Looks like an other great story.
This is such a fun series! I can’t wait to read the latest one!
I grew up in Texas along with these ancient cuties! I’m a girly girl, but won’t hesitate to pick up one of these. Spikes are like thorns on a rose, but they have so many special qualities. Can’t wait to read it, Jill!
Looking forward to reading this!
I can’t wait to read this book. I love learning interesting animal facts.
Another winner!
Congrats, Jill. So many fun facts and fascinating illustrations.
Congrats Jill. I can’t believe this is the last one. I bet you will surprise us with another! I love the humor and even better that it’s a little dark. Your endings are fabulous in all of them.
We love this series and can’t wait to read all about Horned Toad!
Another winner, Jill! Congrats! You really have fun with this one. 🙂
I LOVE this series! Still trying to find my superpower- lol.
Congratulations, Jill! I’d love to win a copy for my classroom!
Yee-Haw! Congratulations, Jill and Bob on another winner! I love this series! You both have complementary superpowers that produce extraordinary picture books that delight kids and their adults! I can’t wait see it!
Can’t wait to check out this series!
What a fun take on the seekers and the sought in the natural world. Looking forward to reading, learning, and sharing with a curious child.