About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts showing signs of entomophobia or anxiety about the unexpected visitors found in domestic spaces. It is a perfect choice for the preschooler who freezes at the sight of a spider or the early elementary student who needs a shift in perspective to overcome a bathroom-related fear. The story follows a family dealing with a multi-legged guest in their shower, using Margaret Mahy's signature wit to transform a common phobia into a source of domestic comedy. By humanizing the spider without stripping away its natural traits, the book helps children ages 3 to 7 move from a reflexive 'yuck' or 'eek' to a place of curious observation. It emphasizes empathy and the idea that our homes are shared ecosystems. Parents will appreciate how the narrative validates a child's initial hesitation while gently nudging them toward bravery and kindness, making bath time a little less daunting and a lot more adventurous.
