Common Sense Media Review
By Kya Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Brave animals explore friendship and stereotypes at school.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In THE HAT OF GREAT IMPORTANCE, Zeke feels oddly uneasy seeing one of his best friends, fellow monitor lizard, Daniel, getting on the school bus wearing a pink (salmon) colored hat. He thinks only birds wear hats, but Miel reminds him that's a stereotype. While Zeke, Daniel, and Alicia, also a monitor lizard, are carrying out their hall monitor duties, they encounter new student Peggy, a flounder, in a mobile aquarium. There through a similar exchange program as the monitor lizards, Alicia immediately takes to her but Zeke isn't quite so sure. Miel isn't either because Peggy is triggering his hawklike predator instincts and he's afraid he might eat her. On top of all of this, there's a new death ray at Pelicarnassus' house and things are being melted all around town, including the schoolbus and Zeke's house. Everyone decides to talk to the new guidance counselor about their issues, but Zeke doesn't trust him. Not only has he made his friends abandon him, he's Pelicarnassus' uncle and he doesn't trust him one bit. Finally fed up with everything, Zeke storms over to Pelicarnassus' house to stop this once and for all but what he finds changes everything and tests his character.
Is It Any Good?
This is a fun and heartwarming page-turner that any kid will have a hard time putting down. Like its predecessor, The Hat of Great Importance is a hilarious and relatable story that does a great job highlighting the life and everyday struggles of ordinary grade schoolers. Kids will enjoy following the zany black-and-white illustrations of Tim Miller as they delve into topics about prejudice, anxiety, and friendship. Author Patrick Ness tackles these themes with an intentional levity that makes this book a kid-friendly choice parents can feel great about.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about communication in The Hat of Great Importance. Zeke is struggling to connect with those closest to him due to misunderstandings. Have you had disagreements with your friends. How did you communicate with them to resolve any potential issues?
How does Zeke model courage in the book? What are some ways you've shown bravery amongst your peers?
Peggy is a new student who Alicia welcomes with open arms and makes sure she feels included. What are some ways you've shown compassion to your peers? What are some ways your peers have shown you compassion?
Zeke sometimes struggles to be empathetic to those who differ from him. What motivates you to be empathetic towards others? Why is empathy important?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Tim Miller
- Genre : Humor
- Topics : Friendship , Animals ( Ocean Creatures ) , STEM
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Courage , Empathy
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Walker Books U.S.
- Publication date : June 3, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 208
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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