"The surprise ending has the same satisfying sensibility as Jules Feiffer's Bark, George. A real kid charmer that will elicit 'Read it again!' responses." (Starred) --
School Library Journal "The book's humor is built on gentle misunderstandings between father and son (when Elliot asks for a penguin, his father assumes he means a stuffed one from the aquarium gift shop). . . A boy-and-his-pet story [that's] about as sweet as it gets." (Starred) --
Publishers Weekly "Elliot, clad in a proper black suit, discovers the perfect pet when he and his dad visit the aquarium . . . Charming illustrations [draw] the eye to funny little details . . . Highly recommended." (starred) --
Library Media Connection "This charming picture book has many humorous details throughout, and kids will likely laugh out loud at the surprise (particularly for father!) ending." --
Booklist "Suitable for both story time and closer observation, the illustrations (including the comical Magellan) complement the child-friendly premise and will certainly attract young readers to this quirky tale." --
Horn Book "The comic characterizations of Elliott and his father, and Small's lively ink, watercolor, and colored pencil illustrations [...] will make this a popular choice for both reading aloud and reading alone." --
BCCB "A happy tale of domestic amity, with a well-set-up punchline." --
Kirkus Reviews 2013 Caldecott Honor Book
2013 Notable Children's Book
New York Times Best Seller
Junior Library Guild Selection