About This Book
Reach for this book when you are feeling the exhaustion of parenthood and want a shared laugh with your children about the beautiful, messy reality of family life. It is a perfect choice for those evenings when bedtime feels like a marathon and you are dreaming of just five minutes of peace. The story follows the Large family, a group of lovable elephants, as Mr. and Mrs. Large try to celebrate Mr. Large's birthday with a quiet, grown-up dinner while their four energetic children have other plans. Jill Murphy perfectly captures the relatable irony of parenting: the more you try to rush children to sleep, the more they find ways to stay awake. Through its gentle humor and cozy illustrations, the book normalizes the feelings of burnout and the deep love that exists within a bustling household. It is a comforting read for children aged 3 to 7, offering them a peak into their parents' world while reassuring them that they are the center of that world, even when Mom and Dad are tired.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
None. The book is a secular, domestic comedy that focuses entirely on the relatable dynamics of a large, loving family.
Ideal Reader
A child in a multi-sibling household who often feels the 'fomo' (fear of missing out) when parents try to have adult time. It is also perfect for a child who enjoys seeing their parents in a vulnerable, human light.
