[2] While the stories contain dark humor the underlying themes play off of social awkwardness and individuality, and remind the reader to not take life too seriously.

[3] He also writes of a boy named Boil who hides in a school bus cushion to be more like his pet earwig, Peter Puddlestick who has a life-changing moment when he happens upon a dead bird, a shrub that enjoys stealing hats and hairpieces, and Mr. Slowbug whose slow demeanor causes him to become a fashion accessory.

[4][5] Richards ink and graphite illustration style is considered reminiscent of Edward Gorey and Tim Burton.

[6] In 2009, Richards crafted the first edition of the book by hand using black faux leather for the hardback cover, and hand-sewn linen pages.

[8] The second edition was also handmade by the author but the cover included a primarily yellow illustration of Simon Snootle in the well with the cats and a hose lowering down into it.