J. D. Polson and the Dillogate Affair

Reach for this book when your child is beginning to notice that leaders, even well-meaning ones, can make mistakes or try to cover up their blunders. This clever political satire for children uses a community of koalas to explore the complexities of public accountability and the temptation to hide the truth when things go wrong. Through the story of J.D. Polson, the first koala President, children are introduced to the concept of a 'scandal' in a way that is accessible and humorous. The story explores themes of honesty, integrity, and the restorative power of an apology. It is ideally suited for children ages 6 to 10 who are developing a more nuanced understanding of fairness and the social consequences of lying. It serves as a fantastic springboard for discussing why it is always better to own up to a mistake early rather than letting a small problem grow into a large web of deception.