This past week I was able to chat over coffee with Danny and Kristina Caropresso, authors of “Squirm the worm”. Can I tell you, they are such an inspiration on so many levels and I think I may have a “family crush” on them-is that even a thing? We had so much fun reading this story and seeing NYC through Squirms eyes. It was no surprise that my toddler loved this story, and I think yours will too.
Squirm the worm lives deep in the earth but dreams of something more, a world that exists beyond his own. Look beneath the surface and venture with Squirm to experience his underground world. See his visions of ocean, sky, fun and games. Share the moment when he discovers his subterranean home is located in Brooklyn NY and that he lives in the greatest city in the world! Set to poetic verse with eye-catching, vibrant illustrations, join Squirm as he discovers NYC, encounters his first human Nicolina and makes his first flying friend Orlik the Owl. A true delight, Squirm’s adventures arouse imagination and curiosity and lead to new discoveries, meeting different creatures, making new friends, all while learning to appreciate the most important things in life - family, friends and adventure. Exciting discoveries are ahead, so come along on Squirm’s magical adventures unearthed!
There are so many things that I just love about this story and even more so, how the story came to paper. Kristen was a stay at home parent homeschooling their 2 girls and Danny was busy running his web development company. The two wanted to find a way to connect that can involve the whole family and have something to leave behind for their growing family. With the inspiration of illustrator Laura Mastrangelo “Squirm the Worm” came to fruition. From the details of their ancestors to the names used, every setting and character has a special intimate meaning.
Laura is no stranger to creating, it sounds like something that runs deep in her since her childhood living amongst artists in Park Slope, Brooklyn. She illuminates the pages of Squirm the Worm and makes the characters come to life with her artistic ability. Even the font on the pages are all done by hand! It’s no surprise that Laura has big plans for Squirm and its future series of stories, we may even see Squirm himself at a future Thanksgiving Day parade if this trio keeps it up.
Purchase your copy of Squirm the worm here https://squirmthewormbook.com/ , check them out on amazon here https://www.amazon.com/Squirm-Worm-Magical-Adventures-Unearthed/dp/1732982511 or come meet them in person at Party Jungle for their play date book signing! For $5 a child, come to party jungle Monday December 9th 10am-12PM. Have the kids play in the jungle gym, then the authors of Squirm will do a read aloud of the book while the kids enjoy a snack, followed by a book signing.
