About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels overwhelmed by a big task or is struggling to see how they fit into a new group. It is the perfect choice for a child who is learning that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. In this charming folk tale, young Jack sets out on a quest to ask the King for a house. Along the way, he meets a series of animal friends who each have a unique skill to offer. This rhythmic story uses repetition and Tomie dePaola's signature gentle art style to illustrate that while we may start a journey alone, we achieve our dreams through the power of community and collective effort. It is ideal for children aged 4 to 8 who are navigating early social dynamics and learning the value of cooperation.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book touches lightly on the concept of needing a home (housing security), but it is handled in a very traditional, secular fairy-tale manner. There is no trauma or distress; the focus is entirely on the solution-oriented journey and the hopeful resolution.
