There Is Not Usually a Hole

The inherent humor of finding a mysterious hole and then exploring its depths is a distinct enticement, but it’s the relationship between Betsy and Philippa (and then, in time, Betsy and Nelson) that gives the book its heart and soul. . . .A journey into the unknown yields friends both old and new in a tale that’s one part diverting and two parts charming.
—Kirkus Reviews

In this sweetly absurd world, snacks and shared appreciation for similar playthings resolve all misunderstandings, forging a new friendship as unexpected as a suddenly appearing hole.
—Publishers Weekly

The simple, uncluttered artwork is a good accompaniment to the straightforward text; there is a lot of humor in what Hirst (Monster Food) doesn’t say. With themes of friendship, loyalty, and persistence, this would be a good companion to I Must Have Bobo by Eileen Rosenthal.
—School Library Journal

Hirst's inventive and childlike illustrations, especially of the dusky, tunnel-filled world underground, are sure to spark the imagination of kids reading or listening along. . . . Kids constantly accompanied by their stuffed animal besties will be eager to follow along with Betsy's investigation in this playful, offbeat story.
—Booklist

The visual joke that Betsy and Nelson both have toys that look an awful lot like their counterpart is both clever and extremely cute, and the blob-like screen prints of Betsy’s friendly face and crimson red fur are sure to keep any cat-loving kid entertained. . . . This picture book is sure to please a classroom of kids at storytime—particularly the ones who are known to lose their toys.?
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books