Snakes and turtles are not common household pets, but here in the Bay Area anything is possible! In fact, there are some popular vivariums that sell reptile pets such as the the East Bay Vivarium,, as well as Python Ron, and other reptile experts who visit schools and libraries to discuss these fascinating animals. Here are some favorite stories about reptiles, which include snakes, turtles, and alligators. Be sure to see our earlier Storytime list on Lizards. An easy craft idea is to make Turtle Tossers using a paper plate colored green, then attach a head and four feet. Spiral snakes are also easy and popular; you can find the instructions here.
Walsh, Ellen Stoll. MOUSE COUNT. A snake puts sleeping field mice in a jar, one by one, in this counting story.
Ungerer, Tomi. CRICTOR. A boa constrictor is the pet of a kind old lady in France. He proves to be a hero when a burglar breaks into their apartment.
Baker, Keith. HIDE AND SNAKE. Listeners will look for the snake hidden in each picture.
McNulty, Faith. A SNAKE IN THE HOUSE. A pet snake is loose in the house!
Jonell, Lynne. I NEED A SNAKE. A boy wants a pet snake; illustrated with cartoon, child-like artwork.
Provencher, Rose-Marie. SLITHERY JAKE. In this rhyming story, a pet snake is loose from his cage.
Ata, Te. BABY RATTLESNAKE. In this Chickasaw Indian legend, a baby rattlesnake insists on getting a rattle even though he isn’t old enough to take care of it.
Nygaard, Elizabeth. SNAKE ALLEY BAND. Sound effects are the highlight of this funny book about snakes making music.