The Misadventures of Sweetie Pie

Reviewed by: Patricia Temple - Long Island Community Library, Long Island, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: January 10, 2015

Review

This epic tale of Sweetie Pie the hamster's journey from a lonely pet store cage to life in the great outdoors is a cautionary tale with a melancholy feel despite the happy ending. Sweetie Pie is given his name by the first in a series of well intentioned young owners. One after another, the owners lose interest in the small caged pet until he ends up in the relatively comfortable position of class pet. He spends many hours gazing out the school window watching squirrels perch on the sill and run through the trees. On his way home with one student for school vacation, Sweetie Pie is left in a snowy park. The next day, thecae is found deep in the snow with the door open. Sweetie Pie survives to live among the squirrels, but readers are left with a sense of mournful regret. The author's stated goal is to inspire young pet owners to provide the best possible environment for their animals. With that in mind, this book could be used as a conversation starter for parents of hopeful future pet owners.

Overall Book Score: good