This book was really hard to read in digital format because we couldn't see the pictures and read the words at the same time. I may try it again in print but at this point it's not for us.

This is a promising story with cute graphics, featuring a number of animal friends who live in the same apartment building. Their de facto leader is Levi the dog, who is in a way the glue that holds this unusual social circle together.

But there are also a number of other animals, each with their own quirky ways, like the Hamster who loves his wheel. They include Toto the tortoise, Clara the cat, Snowy the aforementioned hamster, and Pippa the parrot.

One day, the animals get together to discuss their owners, when their gathering is interrupted by a rather mean boy called Tommy. His bullying antics do not end well and he falls down the stairs by accident.

The story seems to end at a slightly odd point - though I understand a second part is forthcoming - with the boy being taken away for treatment, while the animals look on.

Other than this, the storyline worked quite well for me, and I liked the message about bullying being unnecessary and unpleasant and probably not the best idea.

The animals were endearing and the art was nice, but it would have been better to have a complete story available in the first book.

This delightful children's book introduces readers to a lively cast of characters, including Leo the golden retriever, Clara the clever cat, Toto the gentle tortoise, Pippa the talkative parrot, and Snowy the mischievous hamster. Set against the backdrop of the bustling apartment complex, their heartwarming journey unfolds as they navigate friendship, challenges, and an unexpected twist that changes everything. As Leo and his furry companions face challenges brought by the mischievous Tommy, readers are drawn into a tale of courage, unity, and the unbreakable bond between animals and their human friends. The captivating narrative weaves together humor, emotion, and the joy of unexpected friendships, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Hold on to your hats, animal lovers! Pets of Sunny Ridge Apartments is like a cool breeze of furry fun you won't wanna miss. Imagine Leo the super-cute golden retriever teaming up with Clara the smart kitty, Toto the chill tortoise, Pippa the chatty parrot, and Snowy the prankster hamster. They're all living in this crazy apartment place, and boy, do they have tales to tell!

So, here's the scoop: Leo and his crew are having a blast until this Tommy dude starts causing trouble. Leo's gotta be a hero and save the day, but it's not all smooth sailing. There's twists, turns, and a surprise tumble that changes everything.

First of all, I’m sure this book would be received best in a physical format. The ebook version only allows you to view one page of a time, and half the pages are words only. My toddler losses interest without the pictures to look at while I’m reading the words.

The animals were fun and, luckily, the most memorable part of the book. The mean little boy who fell down the stairs and had to go to the hospital didn’t seem to phase them. Felt weird to me, though, for a children’s book about animals who live in an apartment.

Cool idea, but strange plot twist. Will see how it turns around in part two, I guess.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and all opinions expressed are entirely my own .

This is a cute picture book following a group of pets -Levi ( golden retriever) Clara (the cat), Toto (the tortoise) tortoise, Pippa ( the parrot), and Snowy (the hamster,) who met one day to discuss their owners. Their nice meeting is interrupted with the arrival of tommy the bully. It is a picture book that tells the stories of what our pets get too in our absence (of course I kid) but I liked how the author introduces the concept of bullying and that bullying is not only human to human but can be animals too.

What a wonderful children’s colourful book.

Sometimes I like to read children’s books in support of authors out there.

(If you wonder why I sometimes read one)

It’s 50 pages of great graphics and fun (book 1) leading to a book 2.

Pets that live with their individual human family in an apartment building called Sunny Ridge.

You meet Leo the retriever.
A cat.
A parrot.
Hamster who loves his wheel.
A tortoise.

And a nasty little kid named Tommy and why the pets do not care for him!

Graphics are on one page then turn to see the writing.

It’s bright and very clear for children to understand. I think reading this with a child will evoke lots of questions, plus it’s teaching them something about pets/animals.