About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing a significant transition, such as moving house, starting a new school, or welcoming a first pet. While the story follows Olga da Polga, a spirited guinea pig, it is deeply rooted in the universal experience of leaving the familiar to find one's place in the world. As Olga moves from a pet shop to her forever home, she navigates the shift from being one of many to being a unique individual with her own space and identity. The narrative celebrates the power of imagination and storytelling as tools for resilience. It is a gentle, comforting choice for children aged 4 to 7 who may be feeling a mix of nerves and excitement about their own 'new homes' or life chapters. Michael Bond's whimsical prose helps children see that change, while big, can lead to a world of wonder and belonging.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is secular and focuses on a positive life transition. While there is a brief moment of uncertainty when Olga is placed in a box to leave the pet shop, it is handled with humor and a sense of adventure rather than fear. The resolution is entirely hopeful.
