The Wish Box ( A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure series) Book 5

5 Star Review

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Editorial Book Review:

By LD Clarke

Some children’s stories entertain, others comfort, but The Wish Box (A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure Book 5) by Susan Marie Chapman leans into something quieter and more meaningful. It focuses on the kind of fears children rarely explain out loud, and what it feels like to finally not face them alone. That emotional angle is what gives the story its strength.

Reading it feels gentle and reassuring, almost like being guided through a difficult feeling with care. The story moves slowly, giving young readers time to relate to Little Mouse and his fears. Those fears are shown in a soft way that makes them seem real but not too much. The change feels natural instead of dramatic when the other characters come in, which makes the sense of safety grow slowly.

At its core, the book explores belonging and emotional support. The idea that courage does not always come from within, but can grow through connection, runs quietly through the story. This makes it more than just a lesson about bravery. It becomes a reflection on how relationships shape confidence. While written for children, that message reaches further. The need to feel seen, protected, and included is something that does not disappear with age.

Chapman keeps the stories simple, but there is a reason for that. The language is clear and easy to understand, which makes it easy for young readers to follow along. It also has a lot of emotional weight. Using animals as characters makes things more comfortable for kids by giving them enough space to think about their feelings without feeling too much. The Wish Box itself is a symbol of hope and the idea that even small things can start big changes.

The story leaves a lasting impression, even though it doesn't say much. It doesn't depend on big events or big changes. It builds trust, both in the story and with the reader, instead. This book is a good choice for parents who want to help their kids deal with fear and uncertainty in a gentle way. This story may seem simple at first, but it sticks with you in small ways.

About the Author 

Susan Marie Chapman

Susan Marie Chapman grew up on a farm in rural Pennsylvania and is the eldest of eight children. 

She has always had a special connection with animals and nature because of her storybook childhood. Today she resides in Naples, Florida with her two white and very fluffy Pomeranian dogs, Cookie and Sugar. Susan is the author of the Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure series(15 books) as well as the Sugar and Cookie series (4 books, two of these books are available in Spanish).