The Pocket Chaotic

Award-winning illustrator Daniel Gray-Barnett, whose work has been featured by the likes of The Boston Globe and The New York Times, brings his usual expressive and fun style to this heartwarming tale about the connection between a son and mother and a journey towards independence.

Praise for The Pocket Chaotic

“A humorous invitation to embrace change and move on.” — Kirkus

“Pops of golden yellow dominate the watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations of this tongue-in-cheek story about helping children embrace their independence.” — Foreword Reviews

“An original, funny and heartwarming picture book tale about a connection between a mother and son that will ring true for many children especially in these uncertain times.” — Midwest Book Review

“A clever little readaloud. Hand this one to a parent trying desperately to get their 25-year-old out of the basement.” — Fuse 8, School Library Journal

“There is so much to look and giggle at in this book.” — Youth Services Book Review

“An amusing tale (tail?) with sprightly illustrations that is great to read out loud and may encourage little ones to explore their independence in new environments.” — The AOI

“Enjoy this exuberant, warm story and share the neon illustrations with little ones wanting independence, yet not quite ready to really let go.” — Armadillo Children’s Magazine

A young kangaroo called Alexander lives in his mom, Nancy’s pocket. Alexander loves his mom, but there’s one thing she does that really drives him nuts. She is always putting stuff in her pocket. Alexander tries to keep things neat, but the more he tidies, the more stuff she shoves in there. When he complains, his sister calls him a baby—it’s time to leave the pouch anyway. But Alexander loves it in there—it’s warm and cozy and smells of mom.

Then one day, it gets really bad. Twelve bobby pins, a tube of toothpaste, a bottle of water, a packet of chewing gum, two bus tickets, some keys, a toy car, and a cookbook all find their way into Nancy’s pouch. And that’s just for starters. Finally, Alexander’s had enough. “I can’t take it anymore!” he shouts. “I’m moving out!” So Alexander moves into the room next to his sister’s. They make it all cozy, with a furry blanket and shelves for all his stuff. So it’s just like his mom’s pouch. Almost. The penultimate spread is Alexander sleeping with all his stuff strewn around him. The final spread is Nancy clearing out her pocket with a wink. It was time for Alexander to go.