How to Catch a Class Pet: A Back to School Adventure for Kids – A Heartfelt Review
Oh, the sweet chaos of reading with young children! Just the other night, as I navigated a sea of toys during our bedtime routine, my two little ones clambered into bed, fighting over who would choose the story. We eventually settled on How to Catch a Class Pet: A Back to School Adventure for Kids by Adam Wallace and Andy Elkerton, and from the very first page, I knew we were in for a wild ride.
This upbeat picture book, a part of the beloved How to Catch series, invites young readers to join in a madcap search for class pets that have escaped their cages at school. As the story unfolds, we meet a cast of mischievous animals led by a spirited bearded dragon, each one bringing delightful personality to the adventure. My kids were immediately drawn in, giggling at the chaos as we followed the antics of lizards, hamsters, and birds racing through the halls.
The clever rhymes throughout the book kept my kids’ attention glued to every page. I loved that the writing style is playful and approachable, encouraging my little ones to join in with their own sounds and cheers as we “caught” each escaped pet together. It sparked a wonderful conversation about our own experiences at school and the “hidden” adventures that await us during the day. My daughter, who is starting school this year, found it particularly relatable and felt a sense of camaraderie with the characters.
The illustrations by Andy Elkerton are a visual feast with vibrant colors and engaging expressions that brought each character to life. I could hear my kids gasping in delight at the images of the running animals and the elaborate traps the kids set up to catch them. It’s pure joy to witness their imaginations light up!
There were so many moments that elicited laughter. At one point, my youngest pointed and exclaimed, “Mom, look at that hamster! He’s so silly!” We spent a good five minutes discussing which pets might be the hardest to catch and why. His favorite line was, “Will you catch them before the school bell chimes?” His eyes were wide with fascination, and it was such a lovely reminder of how these small stories can evoke big feelings.
How to Catch a Class Pet is ideally suited for children ages 4-10, making it a fantastic gift option for the back-to-school season or any day when a little distraction (or bonding) is needed. I can easily see this book resonating with kids who are curious about pets or embarking on their own school adventures, particularly those that might be a bit nervous about the transitions ahead.
In the end, this book didn’t just entertain us; it opened the door to sweet discussions about school, responsibilities, and, of course, imagination. It’s a delightful addition to our family’s reading collection, alongside others from the How to Catch series! I wholeheartedly recommend it for every parent looking to spark joy and laughter during bedtime stories. You’ll find it not just sits on the shelf, but becomes a cherished favorite that gets read again and again.
Dive into the fun with our back-to-school adventure! >>
