Children's Literature

Real-Stories with Traditional Values

The Day Lenny the Lizard Got Loose

Available at:

Amazon

Advantage Books

Book Synopsis

A laugh-out-loud illustrated picture book about a mischievous pet lizard, a messy kitchen, and one boy’s courageous decision to tell the truth.

Pizza sauce footprints on the kitchen counter?
Up the wall?
And all over the ceiling?

Oh my—who got loose in the kitchen?

Meet Lenny, a clever little pet lizard who escapes his terrarium and turns an ordinary morning into a laugh-out-loud adventure. As Lenny scampers through the house, his best friend Tim and his family work together to track him down, clean up the chaos, and make things right.

The Day Lenny the Lizard Got Loose is a playful, child-centered story that celebrates curiosity, family problem-solving, and responsibility—along with the courage it takes for Tim to tell the truth when he’s late for school. With humor, heart, and a reassuring ending, this illustrated tale reminds young readers that even when things get messy, everyone—including a mischievous pet lizard—can make it through just fine.

Perfect for bedtime or shared reading, this lively story invites children and parents to laugh together before settling in for a good night’s sleep.

Educational Value

• Encourages truth-telling and accountability
• Reinforces family teamwork and problem-solving
• Builds early literacy engagement through humor

A Word from the Author

The story remained in my mind over the years for several reasons. First, it is a unique, unusual, and entertaining story. Second, it taught me about the importance of trust in the teacher - student - family relationship. During my first year of teaching a student provided an unusual reason for being tardy. It was my first of many of what I like to call, “the dog ate my homework” moments. As the student explained his situation, it took me back to a time when a dear family member had to explain being tardy to school to his teacher because his pet lizard had escaped.  Events happen to families from time to time and it is often best to give a student who is very responsible, never late, and obviously concerned, the benefit of the doubt when they are being truthful about their life experiences.