The Toad

“Having surveyed worms, spiders, flies, and head lice, Gravel continues her Disgusting Critters series with a quick hop through toad fact and fancy …. A light dose of natural history, with occasional “EWWW!” for flavor.” - Kirkus Reviews


“Gravel uses her obvious passion for seemingly unlovable creatures to excite the curiosity of young readers …. What sets this book apart from other early readers is the engaging humor. Gravel’s cartoonish illustrations will keep children involved with the material and the important environmental message.” - School Library Journal


“One of the highlights of the book is the toad eating her skin with a bottle of ketchup and a giant “Ewww!” speech bubble. I have a five-year-old in my house who, after reading this book, went around quoting this page for the rest of the day.” – CM Magazine


“Using a cartoon framework, Gravel rattles off fast facts accompanied by wisecracking amphibians, giving spreads the feel of a gag strip …. Young readers will squeal and squirm …. Kids will readily respond to Gravel’s hilarious illustrations, simple sentences, and dynamic fonts, as well as her call to help toads by keeping the planet clean.” - Booklist