The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the big, loud feelings that come with sharing a prize possession or a favorite snack. While it may seem like a simple story about a bird with a lunch, it is actually a masterful exploration of the power dynamic between someone who has something and someone who wants it. The Pigeon experiences a rollercoaster of entitlement, frustration, and eventual realization, providing a safe space for children to see their own 'not-so-nice' impulses reflected with humor. Mo Willems uses his signature expressive illustrations to guide toddlers and preschoolers through the logic of compromise. It is particularly effective for children ages 2 to 6 who are beginning to navigate social 'fairness' and the persistence of others. Parents will find it a hilarious and relatable tool for discussing how we can find a middle ground even when we really, really want to keep it all for ourselves.