About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is gripped by a specific fear of nature's mysteries or when they are in a phase of asking why and how things work. It is the perfect tool for transforming a scary concept into a manageable scientific fact. Through the lens of a humorous and slightly absurd situation, the book explains the mechanics of quicksand while teaching children how to remain calm under pressure. Tomie dePaola masterfully balances a fictional story with non-fiction diagrams, making it an excellent choice for children aged 4 to 8 who are moving toward more complex informational texts. It emphasizes patience and logical thinking, showing parents how to foster a child's natural curiosity even when they are feeling a bit stuck. It is a classic choice for building both scientific literacy and emotional resilience.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with a life-threatening situation (drowning/suffocation) in a purely secular and highly clinical, albeit funny, manner. The approach is direct and educational, which demystifies the fear. The resolution is safe and lighthearted.
