Jacqueline Priestly

Life with a Tasmanian Devil is a delightful children’s book by author Jacqueline Priestly that captures the chaos, humor, and love of parenting. Young Cam introduces his built-in best friend—a Tasmanian devil. The Tasmanian devil has endless energy, which leads to messes, spills, and destruction. From stepping on Lego bricks to cleaning peanut butter off the walls, Cam’s journey with his wild companion is relatable to anyone who has experienced the unpredictable nature of parenting or caring for energetic children.

The illustrations by Oana Gheorghe are filled with vibrant and playful artwork that perfectly complements the narrative. Priestly’s writing is engaging and rhythmic, making it perfect for young readers. The rhyming text flows smoothly, creating a fun and lively reading experience. The story is filled with humor, as readers are taken through the devil’s antics, from cereal flying like confetti to furniture being wrecked. Yet, amidst the chaos, Priestly weaves in a gentle lesson about finding creative solutions to challenges. Cam’s realization that his Tasmanian devil isn’t just destructive but needs help channelling his energy is a heart-warming moment that will resonate with parents and children alike.

The inclusion of a fun quiz at the end of the book adds an educational element, allowing readers to learn more about the real-life animal that inspired the story. This interactive feature is a great way to keep young readers engaged and curious.

Overall, the story is a heartfelt and humorous exploration of the challenges and joys of raising a child with boundless energy, cleverly personified as a Tasmanian devil.

Star rating: 5 Stars

Summary: Life with a Tasmanian Devil is a charming and relatable story that celebrates the ups and downs of parenting and childhood.