Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie Kingsley
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fun, sweet story of a dinosaur with a difficult pet.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Penelope wasn't even sure she wanted a pet, but when her parents gave her Mittens, her was more than she expected... a lot more. At 600 pounds and endless energy, he's a lot of work and causes a lot of chaos. He even destroyed some of Penelope's things, and makes it hard for her to sleep. Penelope thinks she's had enough of his troublemaking ways, but can they find a way to live together after all?
Is It Any Good?
There's a sweet message about how to manage a pet and a family's expectations here that highlights patience, gentleness, and a good sense of humor. Penelope Rex and the Problem with Pets is a fun book for families who have pets and families who face the constant requests to get one, and reminds us all that patience and good humor are invaluable parts of every home. The illustrations are a delight: expressive, engrossing, and the perfect whimsical showcase for a saber-tooth tiger-owning T-Rex. The story is a good read-aloud, especially for groups who might have pet stories of their own to share.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the challenges of training a pet, like in Penelope Rex and the Problem with Pets. What do you think Penelope thought it would be like? When it was a lot harder, how did Penelope feel? What made her persevere and keep trying to train him?
What kind of pet would you like to have? What are some important things to think about before you get a pet for your home?
What role should parents have when you get a pet you want? Should you do all the work of caring for your pet? Why or why not?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Ryan T. Higgins
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Animals ( Dinosaurs , Wild Animals )
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Disney-Hyperion
- Publication date : March 26, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 3 - 5
- Number of pages : 48
- Available on : Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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