About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is developing a dry sense of humor or needs to see that 'manners' and 'social rules' can be explored through play and absurdity rather than just lectures. James Marshall masterfully uses a cast of quirky animals to navigate the small, often hilarious friction of daily life, from family vacations to tricky social obligations. While the stories are silly, they provide a sophisticated look at how different personalities can coexist. Through these eight short tales, children are introduced to the concept of irony and the rewards of being a good sport. The book is an ideal bridge for early readers who are ready for more nuanced character motivations but still want the comfort of animal protagonists. It is a wonderful tool for discussing social etiquette and the value of seeing things from another perspective without ever feeling like a lesson.
