Growing Up Is Hard To Do Part I (A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure) by Susan Marie Chapman revolves around a young manatee named Baby, who lives with her mother in the warm waters of Florida.
As time passes, Baby notices that she is quite different from the animals around her and begins worrying about finding friends who will accept her the way she is. Her mother reassures her that being unique is not something to be afraid of, that it can be a strength. One day while swimming close to the marina, Baby comes across four small creatures having a picnic together. Although curious, the young manatee keeps a safe distance, watching them with only her head peeping out above the water’s surface. Suddenly, Little Mouse spots her in the water and soon, all four creatures: Grumpy the Iguana, Green Parrot, Mr. Squirrel, along with Little Mouse, start talking to Baby. The group becomes new friends.
The book is full of beautiful illustrations that support the narrative visually while also ensuring the story remains accessible to younger readers. Information is presented in a manner that is both easy to follow and remember. It is particularly interesting how the author balanced the fictional aspect of the story with the factual details about the manatees. The core message about accepting one’s individuality rather than blindly trying to fit in with the given norms of a society is conveyed with affection and simplicity. This combination of emotional reassurance and natural-world education give the story a dual purpose. It encourages self-acceptance, while simultaneously nurturing a curiosity about wildlife.
As readers, we are told that Baby worries about growing up, being different and making friends, but describing her actual struggles would have helped the narrative stand its ground more firmly. The resolution seems too easy and thus fails to bring due satisfaction. Introducing a slightly stronger obstacle could have contributed to the story’s momentum while still preserving its gentle tone.
Nevertheless, as a children’s book, this narrative gives coming-of-age stories a new direction by blending storytelling with an educational point of view. It also effectively captures the attention of young readers and provides a subtle invitation to continue discovering Baby’s journey. The valuable educational explanations that were woven throughout the story are additional bonuses that parents and caregivers will appreciate.
Quill says: Growing Up Is Hard To Do Part I (A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure) is the first book in a series of adventures that focus on a young manatee and serves as a delightful treat for young readers.
For more information about Growing Up Is Hard To Do Part I (A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure), please visit the author's website at: susanmariechapman.com
