Title: Harold's Catastrophic Pet Day
Theme: Honesty & Being Yourself
About the Book
In Harold's Catastrophic Pet Day, Harold learns an important lesson: Tell the truth, even when it's hard This engaging story shows children ages 7-13 how this value applies to their own lives through humor, relatable characters, and heartfelt moments of growth.
Sneak Peek
Meet Hazardous Harold
Harold is all arms and legs, elbows and knees—a 9-year-old with light brown hair who's taller than most kids his age and has a special talent for creating unintentional chaos wherever he goes. For Harold, every day is an unpredictable adventure. But behind each mishap is a valuable life lesson—honesty, responsibility, kindness, and the true meaning of doing the right thing—that helps him grow in the most heartwarming ways.
Chapter 1: The Announcement
It was Monday morning at Bondi Primary School, and Mrs. Patterson stood at the front of the classroom with a huge smile. "Class, I have exciting news! This Friday is Pet Day!"
The classroom erupted in cheers. Kids bounced in their seats, already chattering about their dogs, cats, hamsters, and goldfish.
"You'll each bring your pet to share with the class," Mrs. Patterson continued. "It's a wonderful opportunity to practice responsibility and public speaking."
Harold's heart sank like a rock in a pond. He didn't have a pet. Not even a goldfish. His mum had always said their tiny apartment was "too small for anything with a heartbeat."
His best friend Murphy leaned over, grinning. "I'm bringing Biscuit! My golden retriever can do tricks!"
Sarah turned around from the front row. "I'm bringing my rabbit, Snowflake. She's so fluffy!"
Even Simon, the quietest kid in class, had a pet—a corn snake named Slinky.
Harold slumped in his chair, feeling a twinge of something uncomfortable—envy mixed with embarrassment. Everyone had something special to share. Everyone except him.
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Chapter 2: The Terrible Idea
That afternoon, Harold sat on his bed, staring at the ceiling. He had to bring something to Pet Day. He couldn't be the only kid without a pet. That would be mortifying.
"Maybe I could just skip Friday," he muttered. But that felt like giving up, and Harold wasn't a quitter—he was a problem solver! Sort of.
Then it hit him like a lightning bolt. "I'll just... borrow a pet! Just for the day!"
His brain started spinning. Mrs. Chen next door had that grumpy orange cat, Marmalade. Mr. Rodriguez down the hall had a parakeet. Surely someone would lend him a pet for a few hours?
But as Harold thought about asking, a nervous knot formed in his stomach. What if they said no? What if they asked why he didn't have his own pet? The truth felt too embarrassing to admit.
"I'll just... borrow one without asking," Harold whispered to himself. "I'll bring it back before anyone notices. It's not stealing—it's temporary borrowing!"
Even as he said it, Harold felt uneasy. But the thought of showing up empty-handed on Friday was worse. This would be fine. Probably. Maybe.
Where to Buy
Print & Kindle (Amazon):
Libraries, Schools, Bookstores (IngramSpark):
eBooks Stores - Draft2Digital
Bonuses
When you buy this book, don't forget your extras!
· Harold's Circle of Friends (free bonus chapters & sneak peeks)
· Exclusive Coloring Pages
· Educator Notes Pack (lesson plans & guides)
