About This Book
Reach for this book when your toddler has discovered the joy of keeping a secret or has started 'hiding' their favorite toys in peculiar places. It speaks directly to a young child's burgeoning sense of autonomy and the high-stakes drama of protecting a personal treasure. Through the eyes of Tuffa, a determined little dog, children see their own impulses to stash and store reflected with humor and artistic flair. As Tuffa trots through various landscapes searching for the perfect spot for her bone, the story mirrors the toddler experience of trial and error. It celebrates the persistence required to solve a problem and the immense pride found in a job well done. This is a short, visually striking board book that validates a child's need for 'mine' while providing a gentle, rhythmic reading experience perfect for winding down after a busy day of play.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
None. This is a secular, straightforward narrative focused on a simple animal instinct.
Ideal Reader
A two-year-old who has recently begun to hide their own pacifier, blanket, or toys. It is perfect for the child who is moving from parallel play to more independent, self-directed 'missions.'
Parent Prep
This book can be read cold. The text is minimal, so the parent should be prepared to point out details in Binette Schroeder's surreal and evocative illustrations to keep the child engaged. A parent who just found a half-eaten cracker in their shoe or a toy car under their pillow will find Tuffa's behavior very familiar.
