Can I Keep Him?

In Steven Kellogg's charming picture book, young Arnold yearns for a pet. After his mother rejects a parade of animals, from a dog to a cat, Arnold's imagination takes flight, envisioning everything from a dinosaur to a giant squid as a potential companion. The story beautifully illustrates a child's deep desire for connection, subtly shifting from the longing for a pet to the realization that what he truly seeks is a friend. It's a humorous and heartwarming tale about finding belonging and the unexpected joy of a new friendship.

Mother objects to every pet Arnold asks to keep except one--a person.