Parents' Guide to

I Want My Hat Back

By Regan McMahon, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Silly theft story ultimately shows bear is the boss.

I Want My Hat Back Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

age 4+

Based on 1 parent review

age 4+

Super Interesting

This book is so hilarious that when you read it you will lose it with intense laughter! You will repeat read it 1 million times. Kids under 4 years old wouldn't really comprehend it, and might find it stressful to read. You can lay in bed, read this book, and have wonderful sweet dreams.

This title has:

Educational value
Great role models

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

I WANT MY HAT BACK is told entirely in dialogue and is a wonderful showcase for author-illustrator Jon Klassen's sly, deadpan humor. The low-key but determined bear gets what he wants in the end, and it doesn't look good for the thief.

The repetitive motif is perfect for preschoolers, and the spare earth-toned illustrations are fun, with just enough emotion to carry the tale in this Caldecott Honor book. However, having one character kill and eat another character (offstage) in a picture book may be a tad edgy for some families.

Book Details

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