Rhyming Dust Bunnies
By Jan Thomas
The Story
Three dust bunnies named Ed, Ned, and Ted love rhyming games — bug, rug, mug, hug — but a fourth named Bob keeps breaking the pattern, trying to warn them about a broom-wielding danger heading their way.
Why It's Special
For the kid who shouts out the rhyme before you finish the page, this one turns wordplay into a game with real stakes.
- Big idea: Sometimes the voice that doesn't fit the pattern is the one worth listening to.
- Vibes: Silly, fast-paced, and a little suspenseful — playful right up until the broom shows up.
Perfect For Kids Who
- love rhyming and finishing the last word
- enjoy simple stories with a surprise twist
- like to shout out answers during read-aloud time
- are working on noticing when something doesn't match a pattern
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why couldn't Bob rhyme along with Ed, Ned, and Ted?
- Imagination: What rhyming word would you have shouted if you were Bob?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Bob felt when the others got frustrated with him?
- Real-life connection: Has anyone ever ignored you when you were trying to warn them about something?
- Wordplay: Can you think of other words that rhyme with bug, rug, mug, and hug?
