OUCH! MORE THAN A WORD

A hamster learns to express himself in Lockwood’s picture book about feelings and community.

Harrison the hamster’s day starts off badly when Billy, a goose, won’t make room for him on the school boat. Later, when Harrison asks to play, Billy calls him weird because he looks different (“Some of the muscles in my face don’t move,” Harrison explains). When Harrison tells his mother about Billy’s meanness, she assures him he’ll find other friends. With the support of his parents, an owl classmate, and the school counselor, Harrison learns to say “Ouch” when his feelings are hurt, and “Oops” when he makes a mistake. The next time Billy is mean, Harrison uses the code—he says, “Ouch,” and he’s surprised when Billy says, “Oops.” This shared language allows Harrison to give Billy another chance and open the door to a potential friendship. Lockwood shows how important it is for youngsters to have a shared way of expressing their feelings. The reliable support Harrison receives from adults is encouraging, reminding young readers that they can turn to their community if they need help. Most pages have spare, simple text; while some are wordier, most of the language is accessible, with some aspirational vocabulary that may make this book more appropriate for lap readers. Illustrator Erokhina’s animal characters are expressive, though Harrison’s facial structure does not always look consistent. The soft watercolor and ink images create a cozy forest setting that feels safe.

A comforting approach to interpersonal conflict.