About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is pleading for a pet but hasn't yet grasped the patience and responsibility required for animal care. It is a gentle, realistic bridge for kids transitioning from picture books to longer stories. The story follows Kaita, a young girl who is thrilled to foster a rabbit named Roo, only to realize that animals have their own personalities and timelines for trust. It beautifully models the 'patience and hard work' theme without being preachy. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's excitement while teaching that love is an action, not just a feeling. It is an ideal choice for families looking to discuss empathy, animal welfare, or Japanese American everyday life.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book addresses the emotional experience of animal fostering, including the potential sadness of saying goodbye when a fostered pet is adopted. The approach is direct and realistic, but the resolution is hopeful, focusing on the joy of helping an animal find their perfect match.
