Sparky! by Jenny Offill introduces the reader to a young girl who longs for a pet of her very own. She tries asking for a bird, bunny, and a trained seal. Her mom says no to all three.
Remaining persistent, the girl continues to ask her mom for a pet every day for a whole month. Finally, her mom promises that she can have any pet she wants that doesn't need to be walked, bathed or fed. A quick trip to the library gives the girl an idea for the perfect pet: a sloth!
Sparky arrives and the girl is overjoyed. She just knows that he is going to be the best pet ever. But when Sparky doesn't live up to her expectations, will she find a way to love him for who he is?
I adore this book! Offill paints a beautiful picture of the relationship between the girl and Sparky. She proves that love conquers all, yet with a unique twist.
Being the owner of several differently-abled animals, I can relate to the girl's strong feelings toward Sparky. I often get strange looks when out with my special pack. Some people cannot comprehend the intense bond that owners feel for their furry (and non-furry) companions. The animals may not be what everyone expects, yet they are priceless in the eyes of their family.
Chris Appelhans's illustrations are simply stunning! I love how the characters take center stage and the background is left minimal. The use of watercolors works wonderfully with this sweet story. I also love the facial expressions on the animals within the book. Sparky is beyond adorable and children will fall in love with him.
This is a fantastic book geared for readers ages 4-8 but is also a wonderful read for animal lovers of all ages.
Remaining persistent, the girl continues to ask her mom for a pet every day for a whole month. Finally, her mom promises that she can have any pet she wants that doesn't need to be walked, bathed or fed. A quick trip to the library gives the girl an idea for the perfect pet: a sloth!
Sparky arrives and the girl is overjoyed. She just knows that he is going to be the best pet ever. But when Sparky doesn't live up to her expectations, will she find a way to love him for who he is?
I adore this book! Offill paints a beautiful picture of the relationship between the girl and Sparky. She proves that love conquers all, yet with a unique twist.
Being the owner of several differently-abled animals, I can relate to the girl's strong feelings toward Sparky. I often get strange looks when out with my special pack. Some people cannot comprehend the intense bond that owners feel for their furry (and non-furry) companions. The animals may not be what everyone expects, yet they are priceless in the eyes of their family.
Chris Appelhans's illustrations are simply stunning! I love how the characters take center stage and the background is left minimal. The use of watercolors works wonderfully with this sweet story. I also love the facial expressions on the animals within the book. Sparky is beyond adorable and children will fall in love with him.
This is a fantastic book geared for readers ages 4-8 but is also a wonderful read for animal lovers of all ages.
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