About This Book
A parent should reach for this book when their child is in a phase of asking for increasingly impractical pets. This hilarious story follows a little girl who brings home an octopus, much to her father's bemusement. He patiently reminds her of all the other chaotic animals she's brought home, from seals in the bathtub to a giraffe in the garage. Through humor and exaggerated scenarios, the book celebrates a child's limitless imagination while gently introducing the concept of responsibility and what makes a suitable pet. It's a wonderful, low-conflict way to navigate the 'I want a pony' conversation, validating the child's desire while steering them toward a more realistic outcome.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
None. This is a lighthearted, humorous book with no sensitive content.
Ideal Reader
A 4 to 6 year old with a big imagination who is currently obsessed with animals and constantly asking for a new pet. It's perfect for the child who daydreams about fantastical scenarios and will appreciate seeing them brought to life in a silly, exaggerated way.
Parent Prep
No preparation is needed. The book can be read cold. Its humor is direct and the illustrations clearly tell the story. A parent might anticipate a fun follow-up conversation about what would happen if a hippo really lived in their mudroom. The parent has just heard, for the fifth time today, "Can we get a penguin?" or another equally impractical animal request. They need a tool to open a conversation that isn't just a flat "no" but instead validates the fun of the idea while explaining the reality.
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