Cyril is the only squirrel—and a lonely squirrel—in Lake Park until he meets another squirrel, Pat. Pat has a skinny, hairless tail and is great at having fun. They love scaring the pigeons, stealing bread from the ducks, and evading Slim, the dog. Still, it’s a mystery why humans only throw treats to Cyril, not Pat. This lively rhyming tale builds the humor as every attempt by the other animals to inform Cyril that Pat is actually a rat gets disrupted by the two friends, intent on good times. When the truth finally comes out and Pat is banished by the others, Cyril is back to playing alone. But Cyril’s lack of prejudice and Pat’s loyalty ensure this is a friendship meant to endure. Jovial pencil, watercolor, and acrylic ink illustrations are part of the spirited fun. (Ages 3–7)