Children instinctively understand the deep sense of magic and imagination this book conjures. Boredom is a common complaint of children, and a stampede of jungle animals through the house is the perfect cure. "I love all the animals," one six-year-old says, and the tension of how the house will be cleaned up before Mom and Dad come home adds to the suspense.

The book, written by Chris Van Allsburg, contains a subtle message below the story line: Bored children should be careful about what they wish for. Parents will appreciate that what saves the children is that they follow directions.

The illustrations have a surreal quality that complements the story. Each object, animal, or person is distinctly drawn, in richly shaded detail, and familiar household objects convey an aura of spooky calmness among the chaos. At story's end the parents return, but readers don't see their faces; the view is from a child's eye. Peter's conspiratorial look at his older sister reminds readers to side with the child's version of reality.

If you like the bizarre world of Van Allsburg, try his first book, The Garden of Abdul Gasazi. Another great story that cautions against complaining and features wild birds is Hey, Al, by Arthur Yorinks.