If You Want to See a Whale

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the 'itch' of impatience or finding it difficult to stay focused on a single task. Whether they are waiting for a birthday, a vacation, or simply trying to finish a puzzle, this story offers a quiet space to practice the art of being still. It is a poetic guide to mindfulness that validates how hard it is to ignore distractions while celebrating the deep reward of persistence. The book follows a young boy and his dog as they wait for a whale to appear. Along the way, they must resist the lure of pink roses, sweet-smelling grass, and tiny snails. Through Julie Fogliano's rhythmic prose and Erin Stead's delicate illustrations, the story models how to acknowledge 'other beautiful things' without losing sight of one's ultimate goal. It is an ideal choice for children ages 3 to 7 who are learning to navigate big feelings of anticipation and the quiet power of wonder.