I really wanted to love this book more than I did! Literary Critters felt like an introduction to the world's most notably and respected writers of all time. The silly names that are references to people such as Agatha Christie (Wagatha Christie) or Jane Austen (Crane Austen) are so cute. Unfortunately, the intended audience of 4-8 year old's would have no clue who these people are or were. In addition, this picture book is quite long for its intended audience. As a librarian, I can't see any 4 year old sitting still or listening intently to this story. I think this picture book would be better suited to introduce older kids to literary giants, perhaps grades 4-6 and of course adults because they would get the references. With that said, this was a great idea, but I just feel the target audience should be reevaluated.

*giggles to herself "Yak Kerouac"*
This book was so fun to read! The author has come up with awesome puns and as William Shakesbear asks for help finding inspiration from each of the literary critters, you learn about what said authors "thing" is. The illustrations hide some jokes as well. I imagine younger kids will enjoy this book based on the cute story but as a parent I enjoyed how smart this book was!
Thank you NetGalley and Zonderkidz-Books for the ARC.

This is a really cute look at literary characters and how they have inspired others over time. I really liked the illustrations also. They were very cute.

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC!

I was excited for this book from the moment I saw the cover. Literary puns are the best and this book does a great job of utilizing different animals for famous authors. As an adult it was a fun connection to authors and their works, while being silly and full of gorgeous illustrations. The story follows William ShakesBEAR as he searches for inspiration for his new play. Along the way, he meets various friends and fellow authors, such as Chicktor Hugo and Beatrix Trotter as they offer suggestions (which have some semblance to the stories they write.) Overall, this is a book that I believe both children and adults will love to read again and again.

I loved it. Maybe it's my reader's heart or my teacher brain, but I envisioned all the ways I could use this in my 5th grade writing units, all while giggling at the literary-puns. The illustrations were beautiful. I do feel as though it is quite long for younger ages, but manageable. Definitely on my list for purchase!

If I had to pick one children's book to read over and over, THIS would be it! I envy Sophie Corrigan's imaginative talent.

Poor William Shakesbear has writer's block. Who better to help than his charming friends, who have all sorts of wild suggestions?

The characters are delightful, my favorite is Yak Kerouac. The illustrations are positively delicious. I look forward to more books from this author. And in the meantime, I'm buying a copy of this book for every friend I have.

Literary Critters is the story of William ShakesBear talking to several animal friends trying to find his inspiration. Each animal is a pun of a famous writer, and their advice matches their writing style. While the illustrations are sweet and the premise cute, the book was a bit too long to keep my six year old's attention. I would recommend this as a baby gift for a new parent who has an affinity for classic literature.

Thanks to Netgalley and Zonderkidz for the ARC of this!

What a cute and critter-filled introduction to famous authors and their writing habits! I found the illustrations absolutely charming, and the story was a sweet one of writer’s block and friendship.