The House on East 88th Street
By Bernard Waber
The Story
When the Primm family moves into their new apartment on East 88th Street, they find a crocodile named Lyle living in the bathtub — and slowly, surprisingly, come to love him.
Why It's Special
For the kid who begs to keep every stray creature they meet, this is the story that says yes, you really can love the strangest houseguest.
- Big idea: Family isn't about who you expect to love — it's about who ends up in your bathtub and stays in your heart.
- Vibes: Cozy, funny, gentle-hearted, a little absurd in the best way.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy stories about unlikely friendships
- like to imagine unusual pets living in their own home
- are working on welcoming someone different into the family
- respond well to gentle, character-driven stories set in one home
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story recall: Where did the Primm family first find Lyle?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think the Primms felt the first time they saw a crocodile in their bathtub?
- Real-life connection: Has anyone or anything surprising ever moved into your home or neighborhood?
- Imagination: If a crocodile like Lyle lived in your bathtub, what would you want to do together?
- Character: What do you think made the Primm family decide to love Lyle instead of being scared of him?
