
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to balance their personal ambitions with the unexpected, messy responsibilities of caring for others. It is an ideal choice for the young animal lover who needs to see that compassion isn't always easy or glamorous, and that even well-intended efforts can lead to frustrating setbacks. Val, the daughter of a veterinarian, faces a chaotic household when a mistreated monkey and lion cub are rescued from a carnival owner. The story highlights the tension between Val's academic goals, specifically her essay for a Humane Society contest, and the reality of managing wild animals. It is a lighthearted yet grounded look at the work involved in animal advocacy, making it perfect for children ages 8 to 12 who are learning to navigate responsibility and the occasional 'monkey business' of life.
A lion cub and monkey are rescued from neglectful conditions; some animal distress is described.
The book deals with animal neglect and mistreatment by a carnival owner. This is handled realistically but secularly, focusing on the legal and ethical steps taken by the veterinarian and local authorities. The resolution is hopeful, emphasizing the safety of the animals.
An 8 to 10 year old who dreams of being a vet or animal rescuer but needs a realistic look at the patience required. It is also great for a child who feels overwhelmed by competing priorities at home and school.
Read cold. The depictions of the carnival owner are brief and serve as a necessary catalyst for the rescue, but parents should be ready to discuss why wild animals shouldn't be kept as pets. A parent might see their child experience a 'meltdown' when a younger sibling or a pet ruins something they worked hard on. This book mirrors that specific frustration.
Younger readers will focus on the humor of the monkey's antics. Older readers will resonate with Val's internal struggle to remain 'kind' when her personal goals are being sabotaged by the very creatures she is trying to save.
Unlike many 'girl and her animal' books of the 80s, this one de-romanticizes animal rescue, showing the physical and emotional toll it takes on a family.
Val, the daughter of a local veterinarian, finds her life turned upside down when her father rescues a mistreated monkey named Gigi and a lion cub from a negligent carnival owner. Val is working hard on an essay for a Humane Society contest, hoping to prove her dedication to animal welfare. However, the reality of living with wild animals is far from the idealized version she wrote about. When Gigi destroys her work, Val must manage her anger, pivot her plans, and decide what truly matters in her mission to help animals.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review