Dickens & Rumi
Cover of WE DON'T LOSE OUR CLASS GOLDFISH

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WE DON'T LOSE OUR CLASS GOLDFISH

Ryan T. Higgins

Penelope Rex takes her turn watching the class pet for the weekend. (Ages 3 to 5)

Ages 4+Source checked

Why this age? The picture-book format, simple narrative, gentle humor, and mild suspense suit preschool and early elementary readers. Some children may need reassurance around a missing pet. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age4+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character1/5
  • Frightening scenes1/5

Strongest positives

  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

There is no death; the premise focuses on the care and survival of a class pet.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

A missing class pet brings brief, very mild suspense, with no frightening creatures or danger. The humorous, reassuring tone keeps the story from being scary.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience1/5
Why this rating?

Mild courage in navigating social and school responsibilities.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Encourages imaginative play and inventive problem-solving.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

The cast features anthropomorphic dinosaurs and various children.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Encourages social intelligence and basic pet responsibility.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

The book centers on a child trying to be kind to a pet.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Promotes empathy, patience, and learning to respect the unique needs of others.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Penelope models trying hard to be responsible, though her initial choices are misguided.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Where did a character show kindness or empathy, and what changed because of it?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in WE DON'T LOSE OUR CLASS GOLDFISH would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in WE DON'T LOSE OUR CLASS GOLDFISH, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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