Land Shark by Beth Ferry

The only thing Bobby wants for his birthday is a pet shark. So you can imagine his disappointment when his parents get him… a puppy. Everyone knows shark lovers can never become dog lovers. Or can they? Full of humor and heart, this book explores the idea that sometimes, getting exactly what you don’t want turns out to be exactly what you need.

Land Shark is a large-sized hardcover book featuring a dust cover and colourful illustrations on glossy pages inside.  The aesthetics of this children’s book are certainly pleasing, but more importantly, the story is captivating for both little listeners and their story tellers!  It is funny and gently teaches an important lesson that won’t get lost on little ears.

This title reminds me of a lot of my own childhood, except instead of a Shark, I really did actually want a puppy.  I got a stuffed one instead, which I still have and love.   I have a feeling many parents will read this book with their children and think back to their own childhoods and the pet they wanted and never got.

No spoilers here, but you are sure to get a chuckle out of the ending.

This is a great choice for a bedtime story for kids aged 3-5 years old (and for parents too!)

Ben Mantle studied animation at the Surrey Institute of Art & Design before working as an animator and illustrator. He lives in Brighton, England.

Beth Ferry is the author of two books for children. She lives with her husband and three children by the beach in New Jersey.

Elizabeth Lampman

Elizabeth Lampman is a coffee-fuelled Mom of 2 girls and lives in Hamilton, Ontario. She enjoys travelling, developing easy recipes, crafting, taking on diy projects, travelling and saving money!