Testimonials & Reviews
What Readers Are Saying
Notes from the parents, teachers, veterinarians and young readers who have met Rooster & Squid.
“My son saw your poster at the Greenville Homeschool convention and begged me for ‘One of these cool books’. He won’t read anything for long, but I bought him 4 as a present to start 4th grade. He has devoured them and LOVES to read now. … Thanks for making reading a delight in our home. … You’ve turned our non-readers into book worms!”
Mom of three · Met at the Great Homeschool Convention
Teacher Approved, Reluctant Reader Approved, Grandkids Approved
“As a teacher, mom, and grandmother, I can tell you this book and the series coming behind it are incredible for kids who are reluctant readers and for those who are ready to begin to transition from picture books to chapter books. The story line is cute, something kids can relate to, and the fun facts at the back of the book were my kids’ favorite part.”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar · Verified Purchase
“What I liked most about Rooster and Squid: Bowling Burglar is that it offers pet care advice in a natural and kid-friendly way. … I also loved Rooster and Squid because they have different points of view, but they complement each other very well, showing that despite differences, a great friendship can be forged.”
Readers' Favorite review of Bowling Burglar
“It can be tough to find chapter books for young readers that are well-written and have an accessible plot without being over-simplistic or silly. This series does a great job. … The book uses clever word play that kids will enjoy.”
Goodreads review
“I’m always on the lookout for new books that are wholesome, funny, and keep my kids turning pages—and I found just that with the delightful Rooster and Squid chapter book series for kids. … It’s silly in all the best ways—and totally kid-safe.”
Maestra Mom book review
“My kids are 3.5 and 5 so didn’t know how they would like the chapter book format at this age, but they LOVED IT! … they absolutely adore the characters and the story. One of their favorite games now is playing search and rescue with Rooster, Squid, Bodie, and S’mores!”
Mom of two · Met at VMX · on Search and Rescue
Such a fun series for kids!
“If you have not tried out this series yet – jump on it. Fun adventures and even fun tips and tidbits at the end (that my son wont stop sharing with everyone!) And… that is saying something for a kid who usually hates reading and hates even more sharing about what he is reading. 5 stars for anything that gets him excited!”
Amazon review of Lost and Found · Verified Purchase
“Your books are amazing, genius really! … I have devoured them—love the stories so much and the characters. Love how wholesome they feel and the escape/respite they provide in our world right now. … As a former first grade teacher, I would’ve loved to have had them in my classroom. These books are so awesome!! And they are not just for kids.”
Message to Dr. Jen
Love these wholesome, age appropriate chapter books for elementary students!
“I picked up my first Rooster and Squid book for my 6 year old son at a conference where I met the author. He loved it so much I ordered 3 more on Amazon the following week … I had been interested in (and having difficulty) finding chapter books that weren’t graphic novels and also had characters that exhibited good, kind behaviors and the morals we try to instill in our son. … Can’t say enough about these books.”
Amazon review of Lost and Found · Verified Purchase
“Just wanted to follow up and let you know my son loves the books. He read through them already and keeps rereading them!”
Veterinarian and dad · Met at WVC
“I was your very last customer on the last day and I just wanted to let you know that my 8 year old son has just LOVED these books! He has soaked them up and has already read all 9 that I bought!”
Mom · Facebook message
“She and her husband are veterinarians and her books are perfect for readers who are past picture books but not quite ready for a longer chapter book. My kids are going to love this series about this dog and cat combo!”
Facebook post
Great new series!
“We’ve purchased the first 3 books in the Rooster and Squid series. These are a fun addition to evening reading. My son reads them over and over. I hope to see more books in the series being released soon!”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar · Verified Purchase
“Let me tell you, ‘Rooster and Squid’ by Jen Cole is a total gem! Picture this: Rooster, a goofy Golden Retriever who lives for belly rubs and bacon, and Squid, a grumpy grey cat who’s all about naps and butt scratches. They’re an odd pair, but that’s what makes them so darn lovable.”
Goodreads review
“I loved every aspect of this book from start to finish. … This author covers morally sound themes on family bonding, love and care for pets, courage, and more. The writing was concise, straightforward, and easy to comprehend.”
Readers' Favorite review
“I think kids books with animals are extra special and one with both a dog and a cat is wonderful. … The book is an easy chapter book, great for elementary readers who are ready for more than just a picture book. … It can easily be done as a read aloud for family time.”
Bookreader review
“You made a 9 year old little boy beyond excited after signing his books! … He could not wait to rush home & show his Mimi your books with signature. Excited for the next in series.”
Mom · Met at a holiday market
It's hilarious and entertaining and very informative
“Have you ever wondered what your pet is thinking and will say to you if only it could speak. This book is so funny I can’t stop smiling while reading it …”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar · Verified Purchase
AMAZING!!
“I found these books at a veterinary conference and I am so glad I purchased one for my son. He is only 4, so I read it to him, but he loves them! He laughs and asks questions about things happening in the book. The facts in the back of the book are amazing! I will definitely be purchasing the entire series and any other books made by this author!!”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar
“Just reading the first one and I love it!!! I’ll be back tomorrow to buy more for gifts.”
Veterinarian · Met at a veterinary conference
“I just wanted to say how much I appreciated the creativity and heart behind what you do. It’s clear you have a gift for connecting with young readers in a joyful and meaningful way.”
Organizes student author visits · Met at a conference in The Woodlands
Great Find
“This is the 2nd book in the Rooster and Squid series. My son thoroughly enjoyed the first one and was excited to break open this one upon arrival. It did not disappoint! He asked me to order the 3rd book. So happy we found this new series!”
Amazon review of Missing Magpies · Verified Purchase
“I purchased one of your books for my 6 year old son while I was at VMX last week. We finished it the other day and he absolutely loved it. I just ordered 3 more on Amazon.”
Mom · Met at VMX
Rooster and squid!
“Excellent book, my 7 year old is hooked!”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar
Fun story with relatable characters and we learned a lot!
“We really enjoyed the fun description of the pets (and family members) and the interesting facts. This is a great read for kids of all ages and we are excited to get the next book in the series!”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar · Verified Purchase
Favorite bedtime reading
“The Rooster and Squid books are our new favorite bedtime reads. The characters are funny and we love their little adventures. The tips about animals from Rooster and Squid at the end of each book are always interesting to learn.”
Amazon review of Lost and Found · Verified Purchase
pets are always fun...
“… this is such a cute book I think any child would enjoy having it read to them. … It has humor. It’s well written and flows very smoothly which is why I think reading aloud would be good too.”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar
“The story is humorous and contains educational elements alongside interesting characters. Rooster and Squid are fun-loving pets who tease each other constantly, and their silly behavior and playful antics make them relatable and lovable.”
Readers' Favorite review of Bowling Burglar
“This is a whimsical yet surprisingly thoughtful tale that builds on the charm of the first book in the series. … In ‘Missing Magpies’, Jen Cole strikes a rare balance between laughter, education, and genuine emotional depth, making it a standout in children’s literature with much to offer readers of all ages.”
Goodreads review of Missing Magpies
“Our 7 year old has been absolutely loving making his way through the first book.”
Met at the AVMA Convention
Delightful story for kids
“Fun story of how we might think dogs and cats act, in their own minds. Also incorporates some practical advice for children and dealing with animals.”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar · Verified Purchase
Can't recommend enough!
“A great start to what I’m sure is going to be a fantastic series! We loved this book!”
Amazon review of Bowling Burglar · Verified Purchase