About This Book
Reach for this book when you notice your child navigating the tension between being a 'good kid' who follows the rules and a creative spirit who longs for a bit of mischief. It is a sophisticated, witty story about Elliot, a prim and proper boy who asks his father for a penguin and, through a humorous misunderstanding, ends up smuggling one home from the aquarium. Beyond the slapstick of hiding a penguin in a backpack, the story explores the quiet, supportive bond between a father and son. It celebrates children who are meticulous and polite while validating their rich inner worlds and capacity for imaginative play. It is a perfect choice for kids who appreciate dry humor and parents who want to encourage responsibility through the lens of a whimsical, slightly absurd adventure.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is entirely secular and lighthearted. While Elliot 'steals' a penguin, the tone is magical realism rather than a moral lesson on theft. The resolution is hopeful and reinforces the bond between father and son through shared eccentricity.
