About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to let go of a grudge or experiencing the intense frustration that comes when someone else accidentally ruins their hard work. It provides a gentle framework for distinguishing between a mean act and an honest mistake, helping children navigate the complex feelings of anger and disappointment. In this story, Squirrel's hard work for a baking competition is destroyed in an instant by Goat. While Squirrel is initially heartbroken and angry, he eventually learns that Goat didn't mean to hurt him. Perfect for preschoolers, this book uses relatable animal characters to model how forgiveness and kindness can repair a friendship. It is an excellent tool for parents who want to move beyond a forced 'say you're sorry' and instead foster genuine empathy and reconciliation.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is entirely secular and metaphorical, using animals to explore social-emotional conflicts. There are no heavy topics like death or divorce, focusing instead on the 'small world' tragedies of childhood, such as a ruined project.
