"I Wanna Iguana" by Karen Kaufman Orloff is a charming children's book that takes readers on a hilarious and heartwarming journey through a series of letters between Alex and his mom as he tries to convince her to let him have an iguana as a pet. Through their correspondence, Alex presents his case for why an iguana would make the perfect addition to their family, while his mom expresses her concerns and counters his arguments.
The use of letters as a storytelling device is clever and engaging. It allows readers to gain insight into both Alex's and his mom's perspectives, creating a well-rounded narrative that considers both sides of the argument. This approach not only adds depth to the characters but also showcases the love, humor, and wit that exist within their conversations. The letters are filled with playful language and witty banter, making it an entertaining read for children of all ages.
Orloff's book also explores important themes of responsibility and empathy. As Alex makes his case for getting an iguana, he demonstrates his sense of responsibility by researching and addressing his mom's concerns. Through his persuasive arguments, readers learn about the characteristics of iguanas and the importance of understanding and respecting the concerns of others. This encourages empathy and teaches children valuable lessons about compromise and communication.
Available on Audible
The illustrations by David Catrow bring the story to life with their vibrant colors and expressive characters. The playful style perfectly captures the emotions and personalities of Alex and his mom, adding an extra layer of humor and creativity to the book. The illustrations provide visual context to Alex's letters, enhancing the overall reading experience.
"I Wanna Iguana" is a delightful and heartwarming children's book that tackles important themes in a lighthearted and humorous way. With its clever use of letters, humorous banter, and vibrant illustrations, this book is a joy to read for both children and parents. Whether you're a fan of iguanas or not, this book is sure to put a smile on your face and leave you wanting more.
What are readers saying?
"I Wanna Iguana" by Karen Kaufman Orloff has garnered positive reviews for its engaging narrative and relatable characters. The book tells the story of Alex, a young boy who desperately wants to have an iguana as a pet. To convince his mother, Alex writes a series of persuasive letters.
Reviewers have praised the book for its ability to address important themes such as responsibility and compromise in a fun and relatable manner. They found Alex's letters to his mother entertaining and clever, offering an amusing glimpse into a child's determination to sway parental decisions. The humorous exchanges between Alex and his mother created an enjoyable reading experience for both children and adults, capturing their attention and making them laugh.
The charming illustrations by David Catrow have also been applauded by reviewers. The illustrations effectively capture the emotions and expressions of the characters, enhancing the overall reading experience. Readers appreciate the illustrations for their ability to bring the story and its characters to life, making them relatable and endearing.
One of the book's strengths, as noted by reviewers, is its educational value. "I Wanna Iguana" teaches children about pet ownership responsibilities and the importance of compromise. By showcasing the different perspectives of Alex and his mother, the story helps children understand and navigate similar situations in their own lives.
Overall, "I Wanna Iguana" has received positive reviews for its engaging storytelling, relatable characters, amusing dialogue, and delightful illustrations. It is commended for its educational aspects, teaching children important life lessons in a captivating and empowering way.
IguanaLover ModernGemBooks KidsReading