Smelly Peggy

Name: Smelly Peggy
ISBN: 9781536235722

by Helen Stephens

For children who are learning about personal hygiene or feel a little different, this book playfully explores accepting quirks and finding your unique place.

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About This Book

Parents might reach for this book when their child is resisting bathtime or struggling with being teased for being a little different. It's a charming story about Peggy, a dog who loves getting dirty and hates getting clean, a quirk that eventually leaves her feeling lonely when her friends can't stand her smell. The book gently explores themes of self-acceptance, the pain of social exclusion, and the joy of finding a friend who understands you, quirks and all. With its humorous and relatable approach, Smelly Peggy is perfect for early elementary schoolers (ages 6-8). It provides a wonderful, low-pressure way to start conversations about personal hygiene and the importance of kindness and accepting differences in ourselves and others.

Self-Confidence & Identity Being Different Humor Loneliness & Belonging Friendship & Social Friendship & Loyalty Making Friends Empathy & Kindness

What Parents Should Know

Sad ThemesMild

A character is briefly excluded by friends for being smelly, which causes feelings of loneliness.

Sensitive Topics

The core sensitive topic is social exclusion (mild bullying) related to personal habits. It is handled metaphorically through an animal character, keeping it gentle and accessible. The book directly shows the negative consequence (loneliness) of Peggy's actions, but the resolution is hopeful and positive. Peggy finds a friend who accepts her, and she also learns a small lesson in compromise. The approach is entirely secular.