We Don't Eat Our Classmates: A Penelope Rex Book - Book reviews of We Don't Eat Our Classmates: A Penelope Rex Book

'We Don't Eat Our Classmates: A Penelope Rex Book' book reviews

Review for'We Don't Eat Our Classmates: A Penelope Rex Book'

"We Don't Eat Our Classmates: A Penelope Rex Book" by Ryan T. Higgins is a delightful and humorous children's book that tackles the universal themes of fitting in and making friends, with an interesting twist. The story revolves around Penelope Rex, a young T-Rex, who is about to start school for the first time. As one might expect, the experience is fraught with challenges, particularly when Penelope discovers that her classmates are human children, and to make matters worse, she finds them quite appetizing.

The book opens with Penelope's excitement about her first day of school, which is both relatable and endearing. Her parents try to prepare her, but nothing quite prepares her for the surprise of finding out that her classmates are not dinosaurs. The author does a fantastic job of capturing Penelope's innocence and naivety, which makes her eventual realization of her mistake all the more poignant.

One of the book's strengths is its humor. The idea of a dinosaur attending school with human children is inherently funny, but Higgins takes it a step further by diving into the absurdity of Penelope's initial instinct to eat her classmates. The illustrations, also by Higgins, are equally engaging and play a significant role in bringing the story to life. The expressive faces of the characters, particularly Penelope's, add layers of emotion and comedy that words alone could not convey.

As the story progresses, Penelope learns valuable lessons about empathy and understanding. Her journey to becoming friends with her classmates is filled with ups and downs, which makes the eventual resolution all the more satisfying. The book does an excellent job of conveying that making mistakes is a part of learning and growing, a message that is crucial for young readers.

Moreover, the narrative is well-paced, making it an ideal read for children with shorter attention spans. The language is straightforward yet engaging, making it accessible for early readers. The dialogue is snappy and realistic, capturing the essence of how children speak and think. This authenticity helps in making the characters more relatable and the story more immersive.

Another commendable aspect of "We Don't Eat Our Classmates" is its underlying message of inclusivity and respect for others. Penelope's journey is a microcosm of the experiences many children go through when they enter a new environment. By learning not to "eat" her classmates, Penelope learns to see them as individuals with their own feelings and experiences, a lesson that transcends the pages of the book and resonates with real-life experiences.

In conclusion, "We Don't Eat Our Classmates: A Penelope Rex Book" is a charming, funny, and educational story that will capture the hearts of both children and adults. Ryan T. Higgins has crafted a tale that is not only entertaining but also rich with valuable life lessons. It's a must-read for young readers and a wonderful addition to any child's bookshelf. The book's humor, engaging illustrations, and meaningful message make it a standout in the realm of children's literature.

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