Escape Goat

5.0

5.0 (1)

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Author(s)

Ann Patchett

Co-Authors / Illustrators

Robin Preiss Glasser

Publisher

Harper Collins Children's Books

Genre(s)

Age Range

Release Date

September 22, 2020

ISBN

978-0062883391

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From the international bestselling author of Bel Canto and The Dutch House, Ann Patchett, and the bestselling illustrator of the Fancy Nancy series, Robin Preiss Glasser, comes a hilarious children’s story about a scapegoat who escapes blame just in time. The Farmer family has a big problem! Every day their goat escapes, and every day, Mr. Farmer brings him back. So when things start to go awry on the farm, it must be the goat’s fault. Who’s to blame when Mrs. Farmer’s petunias are trampled? Or when all the cupcakes for Archie’s party disappear? And when the whole bucket of paint is spilled? Of course, everyone blames the goat! But is it really his fault? Find out in this epic collaboration between Ann Patchett and Robin Preiss Glasser, who create this perfect picture book about telling the truth.

The Farmer family has a big problem! Every day their goat escapes, and every day, Mr. Farmer brings him back. So when things start to go awry on the farm, it must be the goat’s fault.

Who’s to blame when Mrs. Farmer’s petunias are trampled?

Or when all the cupcakes for Archie’s party disappear?

And when the whole bucket of paint is spilled?

Of course, everyone blames the goat! But is it really his fault?

Find out in this epic collaboration between Ann Patchett and Robin Preiss Glasser, who create this perfect picture book about telling the truth.

Editor reviews

2 reviews

charming and fun book about honesty

May 14, 2020 (Updated: July 08, 2026)

Overall rating

5.0

Plot

5.0

Characters

N/A

Writing Style

N/A

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

ESCAPE GOAT is an adorable picture book that ultimately teaches about scapegoating and the need for honesty. The goat lives with the Farmers and is happy in his pen, but he wants to meet other animals and find new adventures, so he keeps sneaking out to explore. Every time he does, it seems that he is making a mess! However, Nicolette notices that other people are actually doing the things that they blame on Escape Goat. At the end, the truth comes out, and everyone confesses to their own misdeeds.

What I loved: The illustrations in this book are detailed, realistic, and truly lovely. Each page is filled with color and all sorts of details that make it really special. The book teaches a simple concept through a funny story (escape goat = scapegoat), and the ultimate lesson is of taking responsibility for one's own actions and being honest. The humor and silliness throughout add some fun for young readers who will empathize with the characters- and the delightfully cheerful escape goat (who is quite crafty at getting out of his pen).

Final verdict: Colorful, charming, and delightfully fun, ESCAPE GOAT is a great picture book for preschool through elementary school-aged readers. Whether learning about honesty or just enjoying fun books, this is a great one to pick up and share.

Olivia Farr, Staff Reviewer Top 10 Reviewer 2405 reviews

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User reviews

1 review

Overall rating

5.0

Plot

5.0(1)

Characters

5.0(1)

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5.0(1)

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0(1)

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A Clever Tale of Blame and Truth

April 07, 2026 (Updated: July 08, 2026)

Overall rating

5.0

Plot

5.0

Characters

5.0

Writing Style

5.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

Escape Goat by Ann Patchett is a cute yet silly picture book that uses a playful concept to deliver an important life lesson. From the very beginning, the story leans into its clever wordplay, turning the idea of a “scapegoat” into a literal and lovable character.

The story follows a mischievous goat who keeps escaping his pen in search of adventure. Whenever something goes wrong on the farm, the blame immediately falls on him. Trampled flowers, missing cupcakes, spilled paint, (it must be the goat, right?) This repetition builds a fun rhythm that younger readers will enjoy, while also setting up the central message about unfair blame.

What makes the story especially engaging is the slow reveal that the goat is not responsible for everything. Through observation and honesty, the truth eventually comes out, and each character must take responsibility for their own actions. This message is handled in a simple, accessible way that feels natural rather than forced.

The illustrations add a lot to the experience. They are bright, detailed, and full of personality, bringing both the farm setting and the characters to life. The goat himself is particularly charming, with a playful energy that makes him easy to root for.

Overall, this book balances humor and meaning very well. It is lighthearted and fun on the surface, but it also encourages important conversations about honesty and accountability. It is a great choice for younger readers, whether for storytime or early independent reading.

Good Points

Clever and memorable concept that teaches honesty

Bright, detailed illustrations that enhance the story

Fun, engaging humor that keeps young readers interested