How Messy!

Dot and Duck are best friends, but they have different preferences when it comes to cleanliness. Despite this, they remain close and enjoy spending time together. One day, Duck makes Dot pancakes for breakfast, but leaves a big mess. At the beach, Dot carefully lays out her towel and picnic, only for Duck to dig a big hole and cover everything with sand. Through these experiences, the story teaches young readers about accepting differences and learning to compromise.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 32 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2022
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Publishers Ltd

Dot and Duck are the best of friends, but they have very different preferences when it comes to cleanliness. Dot, who loves order and tidiness, finds Duck's messy habits quite frustrating. Duck, on the other hand, couldn't care less about leaving the bed unmade, leaving cupboards open, and having breakfast all over the place. It's a sight to behold!

One morning, Duck decides to treat Dot to a delicious breakfast of pancakes. But as soon as Duck finishes cooking, they both realize that the kitchen is a complete mess. Pancakes are scattered on the counter, utensils are left in the sink, and there's a trail of crumbs leading to the dining table. Dot's frustration is palpable, but Duck doesn't seem to mind.

As they head out to the beach for a day of fun, Dot carefully lays out her towel and prepares a picnic. She wants everything to be perfect, and she can't help but feel annoyed when Duck starts digging a big hole in the sand. The sand covers everything, and Dot's carefully laid-out plans are ruined.

Dot's frustration with Duck's messy habits continues to grow, but she tries to keep it to herself. However, one day, Dot decides to confront Duck about their differences. She explains how much it bothers her when things are messy, and she asks Duck to try to be more considerate.

Duck listens to Dot's concerns and realizes that she's right. She had never really thought about how her messy habits might affect others. She decides to make a change and starts to try to be more tidy. It's not easy, and there are times when Duck feels overwhelmed by the need to clean up, but she perseveres.

Over time, Dot notices a significant difference in Duck's behavior. She no longer leaves the bed unmade, and she closes cupboards after using them. Even when they're having breakfast together, Duck tries to keep the mess to a minimum. Dot is pleased to see that Duck is making an effort, and she appreciates her friend's willingness to compromise.

One day, as they're walking along the beach, Dot stops and turns to Duck. She takes her friend's hand and smiles. "You know, Duck," she says. "I used to hate your messy habits, but now I realize that they're part of who you are. And I love you just the way you are."

Duck looks at Dot with surprise and gratitude. She had never expected to hear those words from her best friend. She wraps her arms around Dot and hugs her tightly. "I love you too, Dot," she says. "And I'm so glad that you're able to accept me for who I am."

From that day on, Dot and Duck continue to be best friends, but they no longer let their differences in cleanliness get in the way of their friendship. They learn to appreciate each other's quirks and to find ways to compromise. And they know that no matter how messy things may get, they'll always have each other to lean on.

How Messy! is a delightful story that teaches young readers an important lesson about accepting differences and learning to compromise. The characterful watercolour illustrations bring the story to life, and the big font makes it easy for young readers to follow along. The Dot and Duck series is a collection of laugh-out-loud funny stories that detail the adventures of these two best friends. Other titles in the series include How Rude! and How Selfish!

In conclusion, How Messy! is a charming story that celebrates the importance of friendship and acceptance. It teaches young readers that it's okay to have different preferences and that it's important to find ways to work together and compromise. The characterful illustrations and easy-to-read font make this story a great choice for young readers who are just starting to develop their reading skills.

Weight: 182g
Dimension: 250 x 249 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780711269682