GIRAFFES RUIN EVERYTHING

Towering legs and long necks can get in the way of a friendship.

The unnamed, rosy-cheeked, white narrator ticks off facts about giraffes—yes, they are tall. Yes, they are gentle. But this little tot is sure about one more thing. Looking directly at readers, hands splayed in exasperation, the child proclaims, “Giraffes ruin everything.” Whatever you do, don’t invite a giraffe to a birthday party. He will slurp the punch with his long tongue and not even apologize when he stains your shirt. (The giraffe is referred to throughout as male.) And at the park? The giraffe will hog the entire slide; his feet will be at the bottom, but his head will still be at the top. Plus, he can steal your ice cream from half a block away! Giraffes really do ruin everything. (The poor giraffe looks more and more devastated each time he is declared unfit for friendship.) But maybe, just maybe, a giraffe would be helpful to have around sometimes. Especially when friends are quick to shout that you ruin everything. When the tables are turned, suddenly all mistakes seem more forgivable. Bright digital illustrations enliven this cheeky tale.

A young child learns to navigate the nuances of social relationships, with help from a spotted, lanky friend.