Hank Goes Honk

Hank the goose is rude and upsets everyone. You are constantly rooting for Hank throughout this book to make the right choices, until he messes up again and again. But the message behind this book is what is so special: It is never too late to change, and Hank does his best to be a better friend.

One of the great things about Hank Goes Honk is that Hank's transformation isn't seamless and it isn't perfect; he still makes mistakes and tries again. This is a great message for resilience and linking to school values.

This story was great to use in a school assembly and created so many discussion points. The use of words such as 'obnoxious' and 'considerate' are clearly explained, supporting the development of vocabulary. Examples are also provided through Hank's behaviour and the illustrations used.

This is a fun, bright, colourful picture book which sparks deep conversations, giving children the opportunity to discuss the behaviour of Hank and share empathy towards other characters. This is a book to help you talk about what is means to be a good friend and what to do when you realise you've been unkind and how to fix any mistakes.

Picture book / Reviewed by Rosie

Suggested Reading Age 3+

Hank the goose spends a lot of his time being obnoxious. His selfish behaviour and unpleasant manners upset others and mean that Hank can get lonely. So, he decides to change his ways and learn how to be an im-PECK-able goose, but it's not as easy as it seems!

Published just in time for back to school week, Hank Goes Honk is absolutely perfect for school assemblies and class discussions with children of all ages as well as for sharing at home! The text uses the words 'obnoxious' and 'considerate', clearly explaining what they mean and giving examples of Hank's behaviour to demonstrate, whilst the illustrations clearly show the impact of his actions on those around him.

There are so many moments where children will naturally want to pause to discuss Hank's behaviour, offering the perfect opportunity to develop empathy with the other characters. The impulse for Hank to pop Bunny's balloon is sure to resonate with many little ones and the story gently shows the affect this has, not only on Bunny, but also on Hank.

One of the best things about the story is that Hank does not instantly become a saint. He tries really hard, but somehow the big, red balloon is just too much for him. This results in his becoming very frustrated with himself, but the story makes it clear that this does not mean that he is irredeemable. This again is a really important point to discuss with children - a one-off incident can happen to anyone - and support and encouragement are what is needed, not condemnation and shaming!

The illustrations are wonderful with so much to notice and enjoy. I love the little caretaker mouse who spends most of the book scurrying round tidying up after Hank - I feel there is a whole book yet to be written about him! There are so many little details to enjoy which add plenty of humour to Hank's tale and I'm sure many will want to meet his high five to congratulate him on his improved behaviour!

Full of gentle humour, Hank Goes Honk is perfect for encouraging children to be kind and considerate to others.

Picture book / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+