
Reach for this book when your child is begging for the responsibility of a pet or is struggling with the fallout of a 'harmless' lie that spiraled out of control. It is an ideal choice for navigating the transition from wanting independence to actually managing the messy realities that come with it. The story follows young Drew as he attempts to prove his maturity by caring for a mischievous rabbit, only to find himself caught in a web of comedic errors and school-related disasters. Through Drew's relatable mistakes, children explore the weight of integrity and the courage required to admit when they are in over their heads. This book is perfectly pitched for 8 to 12-year-olds who enjoy high-energy humor but need a gentle nudge toward accountability. It offers a safe space to discuss how one small deception can grow, while reassuring readers that mistakes can be fixed with honesty and a bit of hard work.
The book deals with typical middle-grade anxieties regarding academic pressure and parental expectations. The approach is secular and highly realistic. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing that while consequences are real, parents and teachers are ultimately on the child's side when honesty is prioritized.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewAn 8 to 10-year-old who is a 'reluctant' student or someone who feels the pressure to be perfect and has recently faced the temptation to hide a mistake from their parents or teachers.
This is a safe read-aloud or independent read. Parents might want to preview the scenes where Drew's lies become particularly elaborate to help guide a conversation about why he felt he couldn't tell the truth initially. A parent might notice their child hiding a graded paper, making excuses for unfinished chores, or claiming a 'disaster' happened to avoid accountability.
Younger readers will focus on the slapstick humor of the rabbit's antics. Older readers will resonate more with the social stakes at school and the internal dread of being 'found out.'
Unlike many pet stories that focus on the bond between human and animal, this focuses on the 'administrative' nightmare of pet ownership, making it a refreshing and funny take on the 'be careful what you wish for' trope.
Drew Douglas is desperate to prove to his parents that he is responsible enough to keep a pet. When he ends up with a rabbit, he thinks his problems are over, but they are just beginning. The rabbit is a chaotic force of nature that literally eats his homework. As Drew tries to cover his tracks, the lies snowball, leading to a series of hilarious and cringeworthy school situations that force him to choose between his reputation and the truth.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.