Dickens & Rumi
Cover of WAITING IS NOT EASY!

book

WAITING IS NOT EASY!

Mo Willems

Impatient Gerald has to wait for Piggie’s promised surprise. (Ages 2 to 7)

Ages 3+Book 22 · An Elephant and Piggie BookSource checked

Why this age? Simple text, repetitive dialogue, and cartoon illustrations suit preschoolers; the emotional focus is gentle and accessible, with no meaningful mature content. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age3+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes1/5
  • Strong language1/5

Strongest positives

  • Good role models4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Language is very simple and child-friendly.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

No scary content.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience1/5
Why this rating?

Gerald shows emotional courage by expressing his difficult feelings.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

The minimalist art and dialogue spark engagement and interpretation.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Helps children identify and manage big emotions like frustration.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Piggie's patience with Gerald is a central act of kindness.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong positive message about patience, understanding, and the value of true friendship.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The characters exhibit relatable emotions and resolve conflict through support and kindness.

Family discussion

Talk about it

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

  1. Which character was the best role model, and what did they do that you admired?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in WAITING IS NOT EASY! would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in WAITING IS NOT EASY!, 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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