Squirrel monkeys are very sociable; we live in family groups. Our range is extremely limited, and we are the rarest monkeys in Costa Rica. Why are we endangered? Our habitat is being destroyed. Also, we are the cutest of all monkeys, I say with all modesty, so illegal trappers catch us and sell us. Please, please, please, never buy a squirrel monkey! Jumper

Why buy WHAT IS A SQUIRREL MONKEY? Children deserve to see real photographs of an adorable squirrel monkey who teaches them about Costa Rica wildlife. Wild animals should be regarded as an essential part of our world. The book includes facts about squirrel monkeys presented with cute photographs to illustrate them. It includes a lesson about living that applies to growing children as well as to squirrel monkeys.

This true story of squirrel monkeys, in both English and Spanish, stresses the common links between people and a wild animal who strives to become brave.

While everything in the book actually happens, having the young squirrel monkey narrate it from his point of view exaggerates his thoughts, reactions, and ambitions, make it somewhat fictional. A narrator of their age, fears, actions, and hopes makes it more appealing to children; it makes the moral more convincing.

Why do I write children’s wildlife books? I have always been a teacher endeavoring to interest students in how to think and how to create. I have been promoting conservation in a variety of ways. My high school students and I created stories that we used to interact with those in kindergarten and first grade. Those students greeted me warmly when they reached high school and began initiating projects of their own.

Why wildlife? I have been photographing birds, sloths, and other wildlife since 1992, when I took the Rainforest Workshop for Teachers, led by the famous guide and biologist Charlie Gomez. After that I took many birding Borderland Tours with Charlie Gomez and Rick Taylor. When I decided to see other parts of Costa Rica, I found Luis Barrantes of LUBARO. Luis is a fantastic driver, guide, and photographer, who has taken me on several trips each year, finding a number of little-known spots for wildlife, and having varied experiences with different wildlife during distinct seasons. I have taken thousands of photographs of any wildlife we encounter.

I had to use my wildlife photographs and teaching experience to introduce children to species found in Costa Rica, educating them about the importance of wildlife conservation.