PICTURE BOOKS

Joan in the Cone

by Billy Sharff (text) & illus. by Hala Tahboub
Dial. Jul. 2025. 40p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780593533147. PreS-Gr 1
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PreS-Gr 1–In this adorably illustrated story of highs and lows, Joan the dog is reminiscing on the good days when everything went her way; she now must wear a cone, and nothing is working out. Joan takes readers through some great days that included finding hidden bones, catching every ball or Frisbee, or eating a fallen pot roast off the floor. In comparison, readers also see the bad days when Joan’s cone gets stuck in a door or her dog friends stare and laugh. Through her memories, Joan shares what caused her injury, her experience at the vet, her recovery, and, eventually, her journey to feeling better. This book provides relatable ways for children to experience emotional highs and lows, consequences, convalescence, and the physical and emotional journey of healing.
VERDICT A perfect read-aloud for children, especially in cases where teaching resilience and acceptance are needed.
Reviewed by Kasey Swords , May 31, 2025

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