About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the physical consequences of overindulgence or needs a gentle, humorous nudge toward balanced habits. While it features a King, it is really a story about the loss of mobility and the joy found in reclaiming one's energy through simple, wholesome changes. Pamela Allen uses her signature rhythmic prose to show how the King moves from being a 'grand, round man' who can no longer jump to a healthy, active friend again. It is a perfect choice for preschool and early elementary children, using a lighthearted, non-judgmental approach to discuss how what we eat affects how we feel. Parents will appreciate how the story emphasizes friendship and activity over restrictive dieting, making it a supportive tool for talking about wellness.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with weight and physical health. The approach is metaphorical and secular, using the 'King' archetype to distance the child from the shame of the topic. The resolution is hopeful and focuses on regaining the ability to play rather than aesthetic standards.
