Crickle-Crack

Reach for this book when you notice your child becoming overly curious about forbidden substances or when they are struggling to understand why some things that look like treats are actually dangerous. It serves as a gentle but firm preventative tool for discussing physical safety and the consequences of ignoring adult warnings. The story follows Squeakers, a young squirrel who ignores the rules of the forest to eat the addictive, harmful berries of the Crickle-Crack tree. Through Squeakers' physical and emotional decline, the book explores themes of trust, peer influence, and the breakdown of honesty within a family. Designed for children ages 5 to 9, it uses animal allegory to explain the concept of substances that change how we feel or act. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to move beyond just saying no and instead want to model how secrets can hurt and how returning to the truth can lead to healing.