The Pigeon Needs a Bath!
By Mo Willems
The Story
A stubborn pigeon insists he doesn't need a bath — he took one last month, probably — and argues his way through every excuse before facing the inevitable splash.
Why It's Special
For the kid who negotiates bedtime, vegetables, and every single bath like it's a courtroom trial, the Pigeon is a kindred spirit.
- Big idea: Some fights aren't worth having — and the things we resist the hardest are sometimes the ones we end up enjoying.
- Vibes: Funny, exasperated, stubborn, and full of direct-address arguing with the reader.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy talking back to a bossy, funny character
- are working on accepting daily routines like bathtime
- like to argue their side of things (loudly)
- respond well to simple, expressive illustrations and big reactions
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What excuses did the Pigeon use to try to get out of taking a bath?
- Feelings & empathy: Why do you think the Pigeon was so against having a bath?
- Real-life connection: Do you ever try to get out of bathtime? What do you say?
- Imagination: If you were arguing with the Pigeon, what would you say to convince him to hop in the tub?
- Looking closely: What does the Pigeon's face look like when he's annoyed? Can you make that same face?
