The Pigeon Wants a Puppy!
By Mo Willems
The Story
A persistent pigeon really, really, REALLY wants a puppy and begs the reader directly, promising to take great care of it — but only the reader can decide if he's actually ready.
Why It's Special
For the kid who begs for a pet with the same relentless energy as this pigeon, the pleading here will sound uncomfortably familiar.
- Big idea: Wanting something badly isn't the same as being ready for it.
- Vibes: Funny, pleading, and interactive — a one-sided argument the reader gets to win.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy talking back to a character on the page
- are working on understanding responsibility before getting a pet
- love the Pigeon's over-the-top pleading and promises
- like to say no and mean it
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What promises did the Pigeon make to try to get a puppy?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever begged for something the way the Pigeon begs here?
- Critical thinking: Do you think the Pigeon is really ready to take care of a puppy? Why or why not?
- Imagination: If the Pigeon got his puppy, what do you think would happen next?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think the Pigeon felt when you told him no?
