Too Many Pets

Too Many Pets is fun and educational picture book for ages seven through nine that addresses a common issue that most parents face at one time or another. The main character, Tommy, is a fun-loving boy who learns that pet ownership requires much more than simply the desire to bring home a new pet. On his ninth birthday, Tommy's parents decide to let him take home a fish, as long as he can remember to feed it each day and clean its bowl when needed. Tommy starts out pet ownership smoothly and with confidence. He is so confident, in fact, that he decides to ask his parents for a cat. Again, his parents agree to let him bring home another pet as long as he remembers to feed it, water it, play with it, and keep its litter box clean. Even though Tommy learns that with a larger animal comes more work, he remains confident in his abilities. With his duties increasing rapidly, and with the final addition of a dog, Tommy starts spreading himself too thin when caring for his new pets. In the process, he begins to grow frustrated and tired. When his duties are neglected and the animals let him know it, Tommy learns an extremely valuable lesson in responsibility. Tommy just wants to be a normal kid again and have time to go play at his friend's house. Colorful and whimsical illustrations of Tommy and his animals' antics entertain as well as teach. Responsibility and moderation are key themes in Too Many Pets - an especially helpful book for parents who are tired of the question, "can I keep him?"

C.J. Polliard lives in Northern Virginia, where she takes care of her husband, Tommy, and their too many pets.