I Want My Hat Back

by Jon Klassen, Jon Klassen, Jon Klassen
I Want My Hat Back cover
Good Books rating 4.75
Children's Fiction
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Paperback • £8.99 Board book • £7.99
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Format • £8.54
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Technical
  • ID: 782
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-11-28
  • ISBN: 9780763696757
  • Publisher: Candlewick Press
  • Published: 2016-10-25
  • Formats: 66
  • Reviews: 4

I Want My Hat Back is a New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book of 2011, celebrated for its unique storytelling and engaging illustrations. The book follows a bear who has lost his favorite hat and politely asks various animals if they have seen it. Each animal's response is filled with humor and charm, leading to a surprising and amusing twist. The story is told entirely in dialogue, making it a fun and interactive read-aloud experience. The illustrations are rich with visual humor and clever details that add layers of enjoyment for both children and adults. This delightful tale is a modern take on the classic repetitive story, with a mischievous twist that keeps readers engaged. The bear's determination and the clever interactions with the other animals make for a memorable and entertaining adventure. The book's wry irreverence and playful tone ensure that kids of all ages will be thrilled to be in on the joke, making it a perfect addition to any children's library.

Reviews
Building a Library · 2025-09-20
clever 4.75

This book is a masterpiece of understated, slow-burn humor. It is named one of the New York Times best illustrated children's books of 2011.

The reviewer commends the book for its understated and slow-burning humor, which makes it a standout in children's literature. They note that it was recognized as one of the best-illustrated children's books by the New York Times in 2011, highlighting its artistic and narrative excellence. The book's ability to engage readers with its subtle wit and charming illustrations is particularly praised.

Quick quotes

    A masterpiece of understated, slow-burn humor

    Named as one of the New York Times best illustrated children's books of 2011

    Engaging and cleverly written

New Statesman · 2023-03-30
masterpiece 4.50

This is a bleakly hilarious masterpiece with minimalist plot and maximalist tension. The genius of the book lies in its simplicity and the tension it creates.

The reviewer describes this book as a bleakly hilarious masterpiece, highlighting its minimalist plot and the tension it builds despite its brevity. They appreciate the clever use of few words to create a significant impact, making it a unique and thought-provoking read. The book's dark humor and subtle storytelling are praised for their ability to engage readers and leave a lasting impression.

Quick quotes

    At just 16 spreads and 253 words, it's a bleakly hilarious masterpiece of minimalist plot and maximalist tension

    Klassen's genius is in not overcomplicating the story

    It's a darkly funny tale that lingers in the mind

Grade One-derful · 2022-08-30
entertaining 4.75

This is an unusual and entertaining story that the reviewer absolutely loves. It's part of a trilogy and stands out for its uniqueness.

The reviewer finds this story to be unusual and entertaining, expressing a deep love for it. They appreciate its uniqueness and the way it stands out among other children's books. As the first in a trilogy, it sets a high standard with its clever storytelling and engaging characters. The reviewer highlights how it captures the attention and imagination of readers, making it a favorite.

Quick quotes

    This is the first story in Jon Klassen's Hat trilogy.

    It's unusual and entertaining

    I absolutely love it!

The Strawberry Post · 2019-11-26
brilliant 5.00

This book is incredibly funny and beloved for good reason. The humor is unexpected and delightful, making it a standout picture book.

The reviewer found this book to be absolutely brilliant and hilarious, which explains its widespread popularity. They were thoroughly entertained and laughed more than they expected. The simple yet clever storytelling and illustrations make it a unique and memorable read. The book's charm lies in its understated humor and the way it captures the reader's attention with minimal text and maximal impact.

Quick quotes

    This book is brilliant!

    I don't think I've ever laughed so much

    I know now why this is such a loved picture book

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