Gorilla
By Anthony Browne
The Story
A girl who loves gorillas longs for her too-busy father to take her to see one, until the night before her birthday brings an extraordinary, moonlit visitor.
Why It's Special
For the child who feels unseen by a distracted grown-up, this is the story that turns that quiet ache into something magical.
- Big idea: Loneliness can be answered by unexpected kindness, and love doesn't always look the way we expect it to.
- Vibes: Tender, wistful, and quietly magical, with a warmth that builds toward wonder.
Perfect For Kids Who
- love gorillas and other animals
- are working through feeling like a busy parent has no time for them
- respond well to stories that turn nighttime into adventure
- enjoy quiet, emotionally rich picture books
Ask Your Little Reader
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Hannah felt when her father was too busy or too tired to take her to the zoo?
- Story & problem-solving: What do you think happened on the night before Hannah's birthday?
- Real-life connection: Has anyone ever surprised you when you were feeling lonely or forgotten?
- Imagination: If a gorilla came to visit you at night, where would you want it to take you?
- Feelings & empathy: Why do you think Hannah loved gorillas so much?
