The Bad Seed

Written by: Jory John

Illustrated by: Pete Oswald

I thought this book was such a fun read! It was recommended to me at a book fair by both the librarian and several teachers, and it definitely lived up to the hype.

One of my favorite things about the story was the clever use of puns. The entire journey is told from the perspective of a sunflower seed, which made the storytelling feel unique and playful. The humor really added to the charm and kept me engaged throughout.

The book follows the seed as it leaves its family and goes on an unexpected adventure. Along the way, it experiences a series of close calls—at one point nearly being eaten, and at another getting stuck in a wad of gum! These moments make the story both exciting and a little suspenseful, especially for younger readers.

In the end, the seed finds its way back and realizes that it can still be a “good seed” after all. It’s a simple but meaningful message about self-worth and growth.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It’s funny, imaginative, and has a great message, making it a wonderful choice for kids and anyone who enjoys lighthearted stories with heart.

Heidi Brooks