Hank Goes Honk

"Hank Goes Honk" arrived in our house at the perfect time - my son is deep in the "but I need to tell you RIGHT NOW" phase of life, just like the character of Hank. This story follows Hank, a goose who just can't help but "HONK!" his way into every conversation. This story reminds me of the "interrupting cow" knock-knock joke that most people have heard before.

What I particularly appreciated is how the book shows Hank's gradual progress - including his setbacks. It's not an instant transformation, which feels so authentic to real childhood development. The vibrant illustrations capture both the humor and emotional impact of Hank's actions perfectly. This encourages kids to pause and see the effect Hank’s behavior has on others, without feeling preachy.

The interactive potential of this book is fantastic too. Kids (and adults) will love making their own "HONK!" sounds at just the right moments, making learning social skills fun and engaging. “Hank Goes Honk” is perfect for parents and educators who are dealing with eager interrupters or are just looking for a hilarious read aloud.

HANK GOES HONK is a colorful picture book about manners and being kind. Hank is a goose who is labeled obnoxious due to the behaviors he does, such as interrupting others, only talking about himself, and popping other people's balloons. Hank begins to realize that this is making him lonely, so he decides to change, and he begins to be kind to others, which works well until he sees a balloon and pops it. He blows a new balloon for bunny - but will he pop it?

What I loved: This uses a narrative flow of the book being spoken to the reader that will work well for preschoolers and early elementary school readers. Hank's poor behaviors are clear, spelled out and described as well as the consequences of these poor behaviors - such as no one wanting to play with him. The story then goes on to show how this can be corrected by being kind, changing his fortune over time. This sort of example is great for young readers who can follow along with the laid out problem, consequences, and also the solution.

The illustrations are very vivid and colorful with cartoonish animals that steal each scene. Some word art adds to the story with the loud HONKs coming across visually where they appear. The font was clear and easy to read throughout, making it a good pick for reading aloud.

As a note, the book does not end definitively with the text asking Hank whether he is going to pop the new balloon without an answer (he is just staring at it). The interpretation is left up to the reader, which some young ones may like more than others.

Final verdict: HANK GOES HONK is a colorful picture book about learning to be kind and make friends that will work well for preschoolers and early elementary school aged readers.