Change can be difficult, and nobody knows this better than Grumpy, an iguana relocating from Miami Beach to Naples. Of course, Grumpy isn’t alone in this big move. Green Parrot is moving too, so the friends search for a new home together. Unfamiliar with the new sights and neighborhoods, Grumpy and Green Parrot enlist the help of Mr. Pelican, an old seabird who has been helping animals find their forever homes for years. However, Mr. Pelican doesn’t rush into anything. In fact, this wise pelican has a lot of good advice to share with the parrot, the iguana, and an eager young grandson. An early morning meeting to discuss real estate choices begins with some calm meditation. At first, Green Parrot isn’t comfortable with the stillness. “It’s windy here and I don’t like sitting.” But the brave parrot faces his fear by sitting on the edge of the pier, feet dangling over the water. Soon, the pelican’s grandson makes a surprise landing, Grumpy arrives, and new-home amenities are discussed. Fortunately, Mr. Pelican has the perfect tree in mind for Grumpy and Green Parrot so they can enjoy everything Naples has to offer. With open minds and an eager attitude, the two friends find lots of things to love about their new home.
Perfect for young readers facing any change that might seem intimidating, Grumpy and Green Parrot Find a New Home in Naples helps ease worries while gently introducing kids to fresh experiences and colorful characters. Featuring soft artwork and inviting nature scenes, the entire book helps children build courage and curiosity to try unfamiliar things, even if it means slowing down to do so. When the Green Parrot finally settles beside Mr. Pelican on the pier’s edge, the experience is described as “scary and exhilarating all at the same time,” a phrase that captures how a small act outside one’s comfort zone feels to a child. Grumpy finds solace in his friend’s steady presence, while Mr. Pelican’s wisdom helps calm both their nerves. Another gentle lesson arrives when Mr. Pelican’s grandson crash-lands to show off the fish he has caught, certain he is ready to join the elite Pelican Squad. The adorable little bird stomps his webbed feet in protest after his grandfather urges him to keep practicing, showing that sometimes good things take time. A tender picture-book adventure about starting over, Grumpy and Green Parrot Find a New Home in Naples is ideal for little ones just starting to navigate big feelings and bigger changes.
