Our world is filled with animals that enjoy symbiotic relationships, ones that can be thought of as beneficial friendships. And often those relationships can feel unlikely or even humorous when looked at from a certain perspective. Such is the case with sloth and moth.
Everywhere Sloth went, Moth followed. [I'm not including speech bubbles here.]
From nap to nap.
From branch to branch.
From snack to snack.
Here we have an energetic Moth….and a not-so-energetic Sloth. Moth wakes Sloth, instigates a round of tag, and in return, Sloth offers up a snack. Moth’s opening question about Sloth’s wakefulness and Sloth’s slightly irritated response, “I am now,” shows that Moth wouldn’t be awake unless Moth had asked. And even though Moth’s “Tag, you’re it,” is followed by Sloth’s reciprocity and question “Want to try?,” the reader still sees that Moth is the instigator for most interactions. Moth is always, always, always in Sloth’s personal space.
Even on Sloth's weekly "business trips."
They did everything together.
Once again, Moth is the hyper, verbose one asking, “Are we there yet?” Three times! And then “…Are you done yet?” Will Sloth ever have a moment’s peace?
Sloth grows older and more interested in other sloths, while Moth keeps trying to get Sloth to interact, with limited response. And in an insightful moment, the narrative offers up this thought: “Moth did not understand. Or perhaps she didn’t want to.” An SEL moment to absorb. Has there ever been a time when one friend didn’t understand the other’s need to be alone or to have a little time away from constant interaction?
Moth is always fluttering.
Always babbling.
Always...mothing.
The sly humor of that description, along with a sudden burst of dialog from Moth (not included here) makes me smile.
Overwhelmed by Moth’s incessant bothering, Sloth decides it’s time to leave….only to find that life is awfully quiet without Moth.
But there’s a surprise in store toward the end of the story, when Sloth discovers that Moth has been there all along, just giving Sloth a bit more space.
With humor that will bring smiles, dialog that highlights each animal’s characteristics, and illustrations that add even more personality to Sloth and Moth, this book is a terrific addition to both the social and emotional learning and STEM symbiotic relationship shelves…as well as the reading just for fun shelf! Back matter includes an author’s note that explains more about the pair’s symbiotic relationship, a glossary, fun facts, and selected resources. I love it when a book can be used in multiple ways!
Activities:
For social and emotional learning (SEL), pair this book with one that I recently reviewed, ARTHUR’S CAT by Johan Leynaud and translated by Sarah Ardizzione. How are the two books similar? How are they different? Now think about STEM. How do humans and pets have a symbiotic relationship?
Make an origami sloth and moth.
To learn more about sloths and moths, check out the Sloth Conservation Foundation website and watch this video about sloths, moths, algae, and poop.
Title: Sloth & Moth: A Better-Together Friendship
Author: Helen Taylor
Illustrator: Gavin Scott
Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press, 2026
Themes: SEL, symbiotic relationships, STEM
Ages: Elementary school
For more perfect picture book recommendations, please visit Susanna Hill’s website.
I can’t resist books about sloths 😄 This one sounds super cute.
There’s something about sloths that’s innately funny, and the pairing of personalities, here, plays wonderfully to the differences between the moth and sloth. The illustrations feed into their differences, as well.
OMG … “business trip” ! And I’m a sloth lover as well <3
Yes, the sloth’s “business trip” made me snort. 😁
I keep busy mouthing a lot too! Hahaha! Thanks for the recommendation!
*mothing, though similar to mouthing, it is not the same! Haha!
😂
Ha! Sounds like you’re a “social butterfly.” Hope you get a chance to check out the book!
I can’t resist books about sloths. That cover is adorable. Thanks for the heads. up.
I agree. Hope your library will have it in circulation!
I love that the sloth and moth, forming this symbiotic relationship, have names that rhyme. The title won my attention. Then, the humor between these two sealed the deal. I’m off to check this one out at the library. Thanks for a great review.
Yay! I think that this pair will capture your heart and tickle your funny bone.
This one is definitely up my alley! Thanks for sharing it.
It’s mix of science and humor really hits the mark! Enjoy!
Thank you so much for shining your spotlight on Sloth and Moth’s story, Jilanne! ❤️
My pleasure, Helen! It’s a terrific book!
I realized I hadn’t commented yet because I can only reach your blog through the back channel of email to website to comment From My Laptop. It doesn’t work on other devices. The book looks fun and Sloth + Moth seem like such an obvious pairing. The illustrator is the one who did Julie Abery’s Baby Dinosaur board books (Baby T-Rex, Baby Stegosaurus, Baby Triceratops) Thanks for sharing.
I have the same issue with many blogs, Laura. Sloth & Moth are a hoot. Gavin Scott’s animals have so much personality and are so huggable.
Sly humor, indeed! I can’t wait to read this, as it seems a fun story, and interested in the surprise ending! Thanks, Jilanne! (and Helen Taylor and Gavin Scott!)
I do like how the humor is understated, not slapstick. That really appeals to me. I hope you can find a copy!