Clifford works because his massive size turns a sweltering day into a series of playful visual gags, like acting as a giant living sprinkler. The story uses his physical scale to solve everyday problems with gentle humor and a dependable spirit. Books in this family share a resourceful protagonist who uses unusual traits to help friends.
Reach for this book when your child is feeling grumpy from the summer heat or when they need a gentle example of how one person can positively impact an entire community. It is a wonderful tool for teaching young children that being a good friend means looking for ways to help those who are struggling, even with something as simple as the weather. In this story, Clifford and Emily Elizabeth navigate a sweltering day by seeking out ways to cool off. While they enjoy a variety of activities, Clifford uses his massive size and big heart to bring relief to his friends and neighbors. It is a cheerful, low-stakes narrative perfect for preschoolers and early elementary students that models empathy and problem-solving. Parents will appreciate the way it turns a common physical frustration into a lesson on kindness and resourcefulness.
