About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the concept of fairness or having difficulty understanding that their fun might come at someone else's expense. It is a brilliant tool for children navigating playdates, sibling squabbles, or any situation where one person's joy causes another person's frustration. The story follows a group of backyard animals enjoying their version of a perfect day: a cool pool for the dog, a full feeder for the bird, and a cozy spot for the cat. Everything changes when a large bear arrives and unintentionally disrupts their peace to create his own perfect moment. Through vibrant art and clever pacing, Lane Smith introduces the complex idea of perspective to children aged 4 to 8, showing that 'perfect' is subjective and helping them develop the empathy needed to see the world through others' eyes.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is entirely secular and metaphorical. There is no direct violence, but there is a sense of 'might makes right' as the larger bear displaces the smaller animals. The resolution is realistic and slightly ambiguous: the smaller animals are left without their 'perfect' day, while the bear is satisfied.
