Misunderstood: Why the Humble Rat May Be Your Best Pet Ever

"Toor's thoughtful and often humorous musings about pet rats, including and especially her own beloved rat, Iris, make an absorbing read." —The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

As much a moving memoir as it is an amusing pet manual, Misunderstood is a unique nonfiction book for teens and tweens about domesticated rats in general and a wonderful rat named Iris in particular. Brimming with smarts and energy just like its furry subjects, Rachel Toor's text blends history and science with profiles of interesting people and autobiographical anecdotes as it joyfully sets the record straight about why this reviled creature is actually a most amazing species. Readers of all ages will come away with a deeper understanding and appreciation of domestic rats—and may even be convinced to adopt one themselves!


"Toor mixes humor with genuine affection as she details how she came to appreciate rats while also debunking some common myths students may be familiar with . . . delightful." —School Library Journal

"Irresistible . . . interweaves scientific studies, autobiographical anecdotes, and surprisingly riveting research." —Booklist