"[Bender's] vibrant, deep-hued illustrations, rendered in his customary medium of vinyl paints on acetate, evoke the fitful energy of a restless night in the piney woods. The artist gleefully interprets Johnston's humor in the menagerie of unusual pets, especially the hang-dog looking hounds."
—Publishers Weekly

"Lush, vivid, textured paintings and creative language (the titular words are actual colloquialisms, though from different parts of the country) give this slight story a boost."
—The Horn Book Guide

"Pennsylvania artist/illustrator Robert Bender uses vinyl paints in striking colors to depict the struggle. His vivid pictures will work especially well in a large-group setting."
—Catholic Library World

 

Zelda screeched "Zounds, Zeke! Fetch the hound!" Pile the counterpanes in mounds! Fwtch the lizard from the sink! I can't sleep a wink!"
To oblige, Zeke piled more quilts on. And he hauled the alligator in to keep the critter out. 		They scrooged down to the foot of the bed and soon were snoring again. ZZZZZZZZZZZZ.
But that voice droned like a buzz saw through hardwood, LET ME IN! LET ME IN! I WANT TO TASTE YOUR SWEET BLOOD! YUM!