Harold & Hog Pretend For Real!

Reach for this book when your child feels like they have to change their personality to fit in or perform for others. It is a perfect choice for kids who struggle with perfectionism or who worry that being themselves is not enough. The story follows two best friends, Harold and Hog, who try to play pretend by acting like the famous characters Elephant and Piggie. However, they soon realize that their natural personalities do not match the roles they are trying to play. This book explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the pressure of expectations. It is ideal for children ages 4 to 8 who are navigating social dynamics and learning to value their unique traits. By using humor and a meta-narrative approach, Dan Santat helps parents open a conversation about why it is okay, and even better, to just be yourself rather than a copy of someone else.