Review Detail

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.