Reviews:

"In this irresistible memoir-manual, Toor interweaves scientific studies, autobiographical anecdotes, and surprisingly riveting research to dispel deep-seated—and often unwarranted—anxieties about Rattus norvegicus, or pet rats. Centered on her three-and-a-half-year love affair “with someone the size of a hot dog bun," the ever-inquisitive Iris, Toor talks tails (they’re used for thermoregulation), travel, domestication, veterinary care, and rat types. Notably, Toor consistently couples scientific findings  with her own effortlessly engaging narrative. With its photo-marked chapter breaks, handy further reading suggestions, and conversational tone, this is not only a useful resource for future rat owners and ardent animal-lovers but also young essay writers. Get ready to scour ratteries near you!"

—Booklist


“Toor artfully weaves extensive research and personal enthusiasm into a humorous treatise on the merits of rats…In a book that serves, in part, as a memoir of Toor’s late pet, Iris, she tackles head-on the visceral objections of many and extols the charms of the domesticated rat….Drawbacks [of pet rats] are often embedded in endearing anecdotes…The book is well targeted to animal-loving teens, and Toor’s conversational tone, wealth of information, and ebullience could sway many skeptics.”
– Publisher’s Weekly


"Part pet-centric memoir and part broader commentary on animal-human relation- ships, Toor’s thoughtful and often humorous musings about pet rats, including and especially her own beloved rat, Iris, make an absorbing read...Readers who loved Hodgman’s The House of a Million Pets (BCCB 11/07) and those interested in animal behavior in general will find plenty to pore over here."
– The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books