Happy Perfect Picture Book Friday, dear friends. Today’s featured story is one that many kids can relate to! I think most kids want a pet…but some family situations make it impossible for a child to have a dog or a cat…it’s a dilemma for parents, for sure. Author Kirsten Pendreigh’s book is going to have child readers turning the pages to discover a possible solution. And Kirsten is generously offering a Picture Book Critique giveaway – make sure you leave a comment on the blog and please SHARE the post on your social media so more people find out about this wonderful book!

LUNA’S GREEN PET

Written by Kirsten Pendreigh

Illustrated by Carmen Mok

Published by Sleeping Bear Press

Ages: 4-8

Themes: Pets, STEM, Environment

Synopsis: From Amazon:
Luna longs for a pet but the apartment building where she and her family live has a very strict NO PETS! policy. Not even goldfish are allowed. While her friends try to help with alternate pet suggestions, none interest Luna. Almost ready to give up, Luna spies in the trash something small, something green, something someone has discarded–a wilted plant. Perfect! Luna names her new pet Stephanie, confident she can nurse the plant back to health. When others question Stephanie’s suitability as a pet, Luna’s devotion is unwavering. She knows Stephanie is perfect just as she is. But will Luna’s love and care be enough to bring Stephanie to full health? And what are those strange bumps growing on her? Brought to life with warm, expressive artwork, this charming story of one young girl’s belief, determination, and out-of-the-box thinking is perfect for anyone who has ever wished for a pet, only to be told no. Back matter includes tips on how to grow your own “Stephanie.”

WHY I LOVE THIS BOOK:
1. I love stories that young children can relate to! Many children grow up in apartments where pets are not allowed. And even kids who lives in houses may be told ‘no’ when they ask if they can have a pet.
2. I love the STEM element of Luna taking care of a plant – and there is a back matter activity that encourages the child reader to grow their own ‘pet’.
3. The illustrations are full of heart and humor – and the color palette is very nature-friendly!

RELATED ACTIVITIES:

Here’s a link to a fabulous website with loads of plant-based activities; https://handsonaswegrow.com/50-plant-and-seed-activities-crafts-science/

Remember friends, you can help your favorite books succeed by buying them, reviewing them, telling friends about them, asking your local library to purchase copies for their collection.

And don’t forget to leave a comment for a chance to WIN the Picture Book Manuscript CRITIQUE from author Kirsten Pendreigh!!! Maybe you can tell us about the first pet you ever owned…or the pet you always wished you owned.