The Dead Sea Squirrels Set Books 10--12: Risky River Rescue / A Twisty-Turny Journey / BabbleLand Breakout
The Dead Sea Squirrels Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This three-book collection continues Mike Nawrocki’s humorous chapter-book series about Merle and Pearl—two first-century squirrels accidentally preserved in sea salt and awakened in the modern day. Set largely in the Middle East, the friends join twelve-year-old Michael Gomez, his sister, and their archeologist parents as they face a flooded Jordan River, a maze of desert caves, and a bizarre tower-themed amusement park. Each adventure mirrors a Bible account (Joshua leading Israel across the Jordan, the wilderness wanderings, the Tower of Babel) while highlighting teamwork, courage, and faith.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-10
Length
416 pages
Character compass
Michael Gomez
Sadie Gomez
Justin Time
Pearl
Merle
Dr. Gomez
Discussion points
How did teamwork help the characters cross the river safely?
What caused confusion at BabbleLand, and how was it resolved?
Which Bible story connection did you notice most strongly?
How did the squirrels’ humor change tense moments?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read the related Bible passages together for context.
Have children draw their favorite scene and explain its lesson.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Trust over fear
Explanation: Characters rely on faith when the river floods.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to stay calm and ask for help during stressful moments.
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: Desert maze challenges require steady problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Encourages persistence with school projects or sports practice.
Example Lesson: Unity defeats pride
Explanation: BabbleLand’s chaos shows the downside of arrogant plans.
Real-World Application: Promotes listening and cooperation in group work.
Example Lesson: Humor lightens hardship
Explanation: Merle’s jokes ease tension throughout emergencies.
Real-World Application: Teaches positive coping strategies when facing difficulties.