Growing Up Is Hard to Do by Susan Marie Chapman is a cheerful children’s book that brings readers back into the world of Grumpy the Iguana and his animal friends. This time, Grumpy, Green Parrot, Mr. Squirrel, and Little Mouse encounter an unfamiliar creature while spending time near the water. Their new acquaintance is Baby, a friendly young manatee who has plenty to share about herself and her underwater world. What begins as a surprising introduction turns into an opportunity for friendship, exploration, and learning. Chapman creates a welcoming atmosphere where curiosity leads to new experiences, and even the most hesitant characters have a chance to discover something wonderful.

I liked the way the book introduces information about manatees through conversations between the characters. Baby explains what manatees eat, how they breathe, and what makes them different from other marine animals. Young readers also learn about the importance of protecting these gentle creatures, particularly from dangers associated with motorboats. These educational moments fit comfortably into the storyline because the characters are genuinely interested in understanding their new friend. Chapman also explores kindness, courage, and empathy through the animals’ interactions. Mr. Squirrel’s nervous personality adds a relatable touch, while Grumpy demonstrates how a little encouragement can help a friend feel more confident.

The artwork features bright blue water, vivid green plants, colorful fish, and expressive animal characters with exaggerated features that make their emotions easy to recognize. Grumpy’s enormous yellow eyes, Little Mouse’s oversized ears, and Mr. Squirrel’s fluffy tail create a cast that’s immediately recognizable. Baby’s rounded shape and gentle expressions make her especially endearing. The textured, hand-drawn appearance of the illustrations gives the pages a relaxed, whimsical quality. Some spreads feature close-up portraits of the characters, while others open into lively underwater scenes filled with marine life. The changing perspectives keep the visual experience interesting and provide plenty of details for children to explore during repeated readings.

Chapman’s writing is straightforward and conversational, making the story well suited to reading aloud. The dialogue gives each character a distinct presence, and the gentle humor helps maintain an upbeat mood throughout the adventure. There’s also something appealing about the way the animals respond differently to unfamiliar situations. Their personalities create natural opportunities to talk with children about being afraid, asking questions, accepting help, and welcoming someone new. The marine setting adds another layer of interest, especially for young readers fascinated by ocean animals. Growing Up Is Hard to Do: Part 2 combines an engaging animal adventure with accessible lessons about friendship and wildlife conservation. It’s a sweet and informative picture book that encourages children to approach the world with curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to make new friends.

Pages: 44 | ASIN : B0BFZJ974X