Gummi-Tarzan

Reach for this book when your child feels like they are constantly falling short of expectations or being pushed to be 'tougher' than they naturally are. It is the perfect antidote for the child who feels small, uncoordinated, or misunderstood by the adults in their life. The story follows Ivan Olsen, a boy whose father constantly pressures him to be a 'real man' like Tarzan, despite Ivan being small and quiet. Through a mix of absurdist humor and a touch of magic, the book explores themes of bullying, self-worth, and the pressure of parental expectations. It is deeply empathetic to the child's perspective, validating the feeling that sometimes the world is just plain unfair. While it features a magical 'perfect day,' the story ultimately encourages children to find dignity in being exactly who they are, even if they don't fit the traditional mold of a hero.