Review: "Hazel Is All That" by Chad Otis
When I first laid eyes on the cover of Hazel Is All That, I couldn’t help but smile at the sight of Hazel, the bespectacled little girl surrounded by her canine companions, all sporting expressions that are as varied and nuanced as our own. This delightful picture book, penned and illustrated by Chad Otis, immediately drew me in with its vibrant colors and energetic flair. Immediately, I felt like I would appreciate how Hazel, much like myself, navigates a world filled with assumptions, emotions, and labels that sometimes fall flat.
At its heart, Hazel Is All That is a charming exploration of perception and belonging, beautifully highlighted through Hazel’s encounters with different dogs in the park. Each pooch offers her a unique lesson in judgment—be it through a boisterous "bad dog" who shouts RRAAARP! or a tough-looking pup that’s surprisingly sweet. As readers, we’re compelled to laugh, reflect, and empathize with Hazel’s journey as she navigates her assumptions about these furry friends. It’s a radical reminder that, much like children, our perceptions of others can be a bit reckless and often superficial. Hazel’s observations and the labels she assigns—good, tough, naughty—resonated deeply with me; haven’t we all made quick judgments about someone or something without taking a closer look?
One of the aspects that really stood out was Otis’s writing style. His words are punchy and infused with that delightful "dog talk," conveying an emotional depth that pinpoint readers’ connections with the story. The pacing of the narrative flows effortlessly, creating an animated rhythm that engages young readers while drawing in parents too. I found the onomatopoeic elements particularly captivating; the RRAAARP! resounded through my imagination long after I turned the page, making it impossible not to chuckle.
Midway through, Hazel’s dropped ice cream leads her—and us—on a rollercoaster of emotions. In that moment of distress, we see every nuanced feeling she has observed in the other dogs, from anger to sadness to embarrassment. It struck me on a personal level; as an adult, we often think we have mastered our emotions, yet life continually reminds us how complex we truly are. The unfolding plot and Hazel’s eventual realization that she can encompass all those feelings—not in isolation but simultaneously—embodies an important lesson for readers of all ages. It’s an uplifting moment that urges us to embrace our multifaceted selves.
I’d recommend Hazel Is All That to parents, educators, and anyone with a penchant for delightful storytelling. This book has the power to inspire conversations about empathy, understanding differences, and recognizing that our perceptions can change with insight and experience. Moreover, it offers a unique perspective on the age-old truth that we can indeed be a mix of emotions at any given moment.
In my own reading journey, Hazel Is All That has reminded me of the importance of stepping back and reassessing first impressions. It’s a charming read that not only entertains but also encourages introspection and growth, making it a treasure I’ll be excited to share with children in my life. Whether you’re a fan of dogs, a seeker of heartfelt stories, or simply someone looking for a vibrant addition to your bookshelf, this book is well worth your time.