It is a lovely story, reminiscent of Maurice Sendak’s “Wild Thing.” You can do anything you want - there’s always a way! I like the message for kids (and even some adults!). ( )

First sentence: "You can be anything you want to be," the teacher said to the class.

Premise/plot: Did the teacher mean what she said? If she did, why did she and ALL the students in the class make fun of Tommy (the protagonist) for saying he was going to be a pterodactyl when he grew up???? The book essentially explores why he wants to be a pterodactyl when he grows up. His dad is supportive of his imagination and even joins in.

My thoughts: This book makes no sense at the end. It has a twist ending. But I can't unpack what it means. Perhaps because I'm too literal, too stuck in my ways. It's impossible for a boy to grow up to be a pterodactyl.

The book is silly but I'm not sure if there is a hidden message there. ( )