In a time when participation trophies are handed out to most kids, this book looks at not getting a trophy. It says it’s OK to not get a trophy. That what matters isn’t if you win or if you lose, but it’s the person you are, and how you get where you’re at. I really like that message. I also really like the illustrations in this book. The book is long, especially towards the end. Once it gets to the main point in the message, it goes on and on and on almost like it’s beating a dead horse. I like this book, but it could do with better editing.

The Trophy Trap is about dogs preparing to compete in a dog show competition. The competitors are worried and the main character is especially fixated on winning the trophy.

This was a great book to read with young kids! The book did a great job showing different ways people might worry, which helped personalize some of the feelings my kids have felt in the past. We finished with a good discussion about the importance of trying vs winning.

This is a sweet book about learning and growing. There’s a message about taking our dreams and turning them into plans. It’s very difficult for children when they don’t win/come in first, and this book is such a positive spin. The illustrations are beautiful and really enhance the message. Recommended!

Extremely cute story with really cute pictures aswell. I would like to eventually purchase this one for my own children. I believe that it tells an important message that winning isn’t always everything but you are still great.

The Trophy Trap by Chasta Hamilton is a cute children's book that follows Elvis, a Scottish Terrier, and his friends as they prepare for a dog competition. Each character, from confident Laila to hardworking Betty, brings a unique story that teaches valuable lessons about self-worth and perseverance. This book beautifully illustrates that true success isn't about outshining others but about personal growth and kindness. I loved how each dog learned to appreciate its own strengths rather than focusing solely on winning a trophy. It's a charming read that offers more than just entertainment—it provides important life lessons in a fun and engaging way.

I received an electronic ARC from Houndstooth Press through NetGalley.
Hamilton affirms that trophies are not the most important item in our lives. Readers see dogs compete for a prize. We see one dog feel the pressure yet really want to win. He doesn't and his parent affirm him and offer their support and love. From here, the story takes readers through how many things are more important than a trophy or a crown. The emphasis stays on being who you are and encouraging others to be their best too. The illustrations are simple and enhance the text. A terrific family read as competition is so much a part of our lives.

Who let the dogs out with lessons to teach? 🐾 The Trophy Trap did! Let me tell ya, this book isn’t just about cute pups competing for a shiny prize. Nope, it’s a treasure trove of giggles and growth. As Elvis and his furry pals strut their stuff, they learn what really counts—it ain't the trophy but how they play the game. My little nephew couldn’t stop talking about Betty the overachiever, and honestly, neither could I! If you’ve got a little one in your life, grab this book. It’s a winner on all fronts, no trophy needed! 🏆📚

This is such a lovely read. The words bounce along when read out loud to my little one. I couldn’t help but out on voices, as the sentences, and the rhymes are well written and push to this! The sentiment is great. Winning and losing and wanting the best for ourselves and others. The examples given, and the story being to.d through the eyes of a puppy and a very entertaining dog talent show serves the moral well. The images add to the book, after all who wouldn’t love to talk about a dog playing croquet! A great addition to the bedtime story pile in any home.

This didn’t quite hit expectation. It was fun and the idea is good but I found it a bit preachy. I prefer a message like this one to be slightly less spelled out.

The book was beautifully written. The author made careful word choices that were very impactful. I also liked how some of the words were different colors which makes it more engaging for young readers. Overall, the book was well written and I did really enjoy it.

A lovely book about what matters most in life, competitions and friendships. This is mostly suitable for younger children. My child, who is 9, also found this engaging though. The characters being personified dogs made the situations easier to analyse and learn from, cute and strangely, or perhaps not strangely, relatable.
I liked that this book was honest about how losing feels like.
The prose was well-thought. A much needed conversation about trophies being traps.