This is a very nice book for young readers to practice their skills. The situation is one children can easily relate to and it includes some gentle humor. For example, once the main character pictures all of her siblings' pet criteria in her mind--she envisions some kind of friendly monster as their pet.

This book would be a great read a loud for a library story time. It could be followed by activities where children draw their own pet or draw their desired "perfect pet." Other animal books could be on display, both fiction and non-fiction. Depending on the age of the patrons, they could also write about the qualities that make their own pet perfect for their family (of the qualities they would want in a pet.)