A Cozy Night with the Little Red Chicken: Review of "Interrupting Chicken"
Every night, as my two little ones shuffle into the dim glow of their bedtime nook, I feel a delicate mix of exhaustion and excitement wash over me. The familiar tug of their tiny hands on my shirt reminds me that they’re ready for our nightly ritual: storytime. Recently, in a quest to find something fresh and engaging for us to share, I stumbled upon Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein. Little did I know, this bubbly red chicken would not only capture my kids’ giggles but also give me a moment of pure parental bliss in the chaos of bedtime.
In this delightful book, we meet a little red chicken who can’t help but jump into classic fairy tales—like Hansel and Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood, and yes, even Chicken Little—to save characters from impending doom. It’s a charming tale where the little red chicken, under the watchful eye of her Papa, just can’t contain her enthusiasm. The twist? When it’s finally her turn to tell a story, will Papa have the patience to listen without dozing off?
From the moment I opened the book, my children were enthralled. The vibrant illustrations are bursting with energy and expression, and I could feel my son leaning in closer as the silly antics unfolded. We had quite a few chuckles together at the chicken’s bold interruptions—my daughter even squealed with laughter when the chicken jumped in to prevent a disaster in one of the tales. It sparked a delightful conversation as they began to discuss moments where they felt the urge to jump in, and our discussions turned into a heartwarming lesson on listening.
One of our favorite pages featured the little red chicken in her most dramatic pose, where she shouted out her interjections to save the day. I’ll admit, trying to mimic her squawking made for a comical performance that had everyone roaring with laughter. I cannot help but think back to evenings when one of them would squawk mid-story, mirroring the chicken’s antics. It’s those little moments that remind me why I cherish storytime—it’s not just about the books; it’s about the memories we create.
Having read this book several times now, I can confidently say it’s become a staple in our nightly lineup. It’s perfect for kids aged 3-6, and I’d especially recommend it to parents of little ones who love a good giggle or have a knack for dramatics (much like my own!). The message about interrupting is delivered in such a clever way that it feels whimsical rather than preachy—something that resonates with both children and parents alike.
For me, Interrupting Chicken isn’t just another picture book—it’s a reminder of the little joys of parenting, the sweetness of snuggle time, and the endless laughter that brightens our days. If there’s anything to take from this, it’s that weaving stories with my children opens doors of imagination, laughter, and heartfelt connections. So, if you’re looking for that perfect blend of humor and warmth to share with your kids, this Caldecott Honor book is a must-have on your reading shelf! 📚❤️
What are you reading with your little ones tonight?
Discover the delightful adventures of the Interrupting Chicken! >>
