Picture Book Review: Waiting Is Not Easy! (An Elephant and Piggie Book): Mo Willems

Picture Book Review: Waiting Is Not Easy! (An Elephant and Piggie Book): Mo Willems 



  1. Bibliography 

Willems, M. (2014). Waiting Is Not Easy!. Disney-Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 9781423199571


  1. Plot Summary

Waiting Is Not Easy! is a delightful picture book following good friends Piggie and Gerald as they challenge the concept of patiences and waiting. The story begins with Piggie presenting to Gerald that he has a secret surprise for him. Gerald is excited about his surprise and can hardly wait to find out what it could be. As the story progresses Elephant grows impatient, while Piggie remains happy and patient for the unveiling of the surprise. 


  1. Critical Analysis

Waiting Is Not Easy! Is filled with humor while maintaining an important storyline of the significance of patiences. This story will leave the reader entertained, as well as intrigued on what the surprise could be. Waiting Is Not Easy! Also highlights that all surprises do not have to be items, but can be things that others find special. This picture book is easy for young children to read independently and contains the opportunity for children to make predictions on what the conclusion will be, making it an adventure for all readers.


The writing and illustration are appropriate for younger readers, using minimal text and simple illustrations. Willems' use of bold lines and vibrant colors ensures that each page is visually engaging, holding the attention of even the youngest readers. My favorite illustration is one in which Gerald throws his arms joyfully into the air, saying "I CAN'T WAIT." Piggie leans in, smiling, but then points out "You will have to." 


  1. Review Excerpts

School Library Journal: “The expected large print, spare dialogue, and bubble delivery make it easy to read. Gerald loses patience with Piggie when he is told that a surprise is in store but that he must wait for it.”


Kirkus Reviews: “A lesson that never grows old, enacted with verve by two favorite friends.”

2015 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor

  1. Connections

This story can be used to model for children patience and how waiting can lead to wonderful things. This story can be used at home for parents or classroom teachers to show that the beauty of waiting can lead to great things. Students can continue their reading journey with Elephant and Piggie as there are twenty two books to in the series, some being, “Today I Will Fly, My Friend is Sad, There is a Bird on Your Head, I am Invited to a Party, I Love My New Toy, I Will Surprise My Friend!, Are You Ready to Play Outside?”. Children may also enjoy  Elephant & Piggie ART-ivity book, this fun-filled, hands-on book features an interactive narrative that invites kids into an exciting, original Elephant & Piggie adventure! ISBN 9781484798164

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