Crocodiles Need Friends, Too! - by Tom Toro (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

This action-packed story full of humor and heart follows a lonely predator on the hunt...for pals. Perfect for fans of Grumpy Monkey.

Croc isn't like other crocodiles. She is a reptilian ballerina! An aquatic architect! A croc 'n' roll STAR! She is creative, cool, and fun. But the other animals only notice her sharp teeth and scary eyes. It's lonely when nobody sees who you are deep down.

When disaster strikes, Croc has a chance to use her super-special talents to prove what a great friend she can be--and show the savanna that you can discover something new about someone by simply looking under the surface.

Review Quotes

"The animals are captivating... This meaningful story is appropriate for young readers ­collections where lessons in acceptance and tolerance are desired."--School Library Journal

Praise for Crocodiles Need Friends, Too!:

"Toro's cartoon illustrations pair beautifully with his text... The entire setting is well realized, with fantastic details."--Kirkus

"Humorous illustrations.... Very young readers will be pleased with Croc's new group of friends."--Booklist

"A visual (and comedic) feast for budding smart-alecks."--Patton Oswalt

"This delightful picture book turns the widespread phenomenon of toddler bathtime fears on its head.... The book's skillfully crafted storyline will appeal to children as well as adults working to avoid meltdowns when little ones have a head.... The refreshing, amusing approach to overcoming ablutophobia in small children."--Kirkus

"Toro's...illustrations extend the text's themes with engaging, empathetic details. The combination is sure to boost readers' confidence as they navigate their own classroom return."

--Publishers Weekly

Praise for I'm Terrified of Bath Time:
Missouri Building Block Picture Award Winner
Kentucky Bluegrass Award Winner

Praise for Back to School, Backpack!
The Children's Book Council Favorites Awards, Children's Favorites & Teacher Favorites

"[In] this offbeat picture book about fears and friendship...lots of laughs lead up to a...reassuring conclusion."
--The San Francisco Chronicle

"A charming reassurance to young kids that the first day of school is scary for everyone, including backpacks, and they do not have to carry their worries alone."--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Along with offering a bit of bathroom behavior modification, this is, undeniably, storytime gold for young audiences large or small."--Booklist

"Matching the style of I'm Terrified of Bath Time, Rich and Toro rally again...An amusing title to send young readers back to school with a giggle."

--School Library Journal

"This funny romp will leave readers feeling empowered for their own first days."--Kirkus

About the Author

Tom Toro is an award-winning picture book illustrator and New Yorker cartoonist. His books include How to Potty Train Your Porcupine as well as I'm Terrified of Bath Time and Back to School, Backpack!, both written by Simon Rich. His weekly comic strip Home Free appears on GoComics. Tom lives in Portland, Oregon with his partner, kid, and cats. He invites you to visit him online at www.tomtoro.com or @tbtoro.