For a child who believes in finding creative solutions to big problems, this story shows how one determined goose can save a friend with ingenuity and a dash of disguise.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is facing a seemingly impossible challenge and needs encouragement to think creatively and not give up. Petunia, a charmingly silly goose, falls for a handsome gander named King. Her joy turns to panic when she learns he is destined to be Christmas dinner. Her determination to save him sparks a series of humorous and inventive schemes, from trying to scare the family as a monster to earning money to buy him herself. This book beautifully explores themes of bravery, perseverance, and the lengths one will go to for a friend. It is a heartwarming and funny holiday tale for ages 4 to 8 that showcases the power of ingenuity and kindness.
The central conflict involves a character being raised for food, which is a form of impending death. The approach is metaphorical and softened by the cartoonish, anthropomorphic animals and the humorous tone. The resolution is entirely hopeful and avoids the grim reality. The "Christmas dinner" aspect is secular, focused on the meal tradition rather than religious observance.
Ideal Reader
A 5 to 7 year old who loves animals and is beginning to understand cause and effect. This is for a child who enjoys seeing characters take initiative and solve their own problems, especially through creative or artistic means. It is also great for a child who appreciates a mix of gentle suspense and humor.
Parent Prep
Parents should be prepared for the concept that King is "to be roasted for Christmas dinner." While presented matter of factly, it is the core conflict. Previewing pages 10 to 12 where this is revealed might be helpful. The book can be read cold, but parents should be ready to discuss why Petunia is so worried. The child overhears a conversation about where meat comes from, or asks a pointed question like, "Are we eating a turkey for Thanksgiving?" This book provides a gentle, fictionalized entry point into the idea of animals as food, but with a happy, rescue focused outcome.
Age Experience
A 4 year old will focus on the funny monster disguise, the animal characters, and the happy ending. An 8 year old will better grasp the economic aspect (earning money, making a purchase) and the cleverness of Petunia's entrepreneurial solution. They will also understand the stakes of King's fate more clearly.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many holiday books focused on Santa or receiving gifts, this story centers on proactive giving, love, and problem solving. Petunia's solution is not magical; it is based on hard work, creativity, and commerce, which is a unique and empowering message for a picture book. Her blend of absurdity (the monster) and practicality (starting a business) is distinctive.
Read plot summary
Petunia the goose falls in love with a handsome gander, King, who is being fattened for Christmas dinner. Determined to save him, she first disguises herself as a fearsome monster to scare his owners, which fails humorously. She then works tirelessly, making and selling decorative Christmas wreaths and sprigs to earn the money to buy King's freedom. She succeeds just in time, and they celebrate Christmas together with all their farm friends.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Petunia tried to solve her problem in two different ways. First she tried to scare the family, and then she tried to earn money. Which plan do you think was better and why?
2
On the page where Petunia is making decorations, what are some of the things she uses from the forest? If you were going to make decorations, what would you use?
3
The sign on King's box says 'Prime gander for Christmas.' What do you think that made Petunia feel when she read it? What would you do if you were Petunia?
4
At the end, Petunia and King spend their money on Christmas presents for their farm friends. Why do you think they chose to do that after working so hard to earn the money?
