Harrison P. Spader, Personal Space Invader

Harrison P. Spader, Personal Space Invader

book

2018

WISE
90%

WISE Score

4.7

Amazon

Harrison is the ultimate 'close-talker' hippo who finally learns that his friends need a little breathing room.

Amazon4.7
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

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Screenwise Verdict

Harrison P. Spader is a total win for parents dealing with a 'velcro child' or a kid who treats the playground like a mosh pit.

It’s a quick read, the art is great, and the 'Space Saver' rhyme actually sticks. It’s one of those rare 'teaching' books that doesn't feel like a lecture, making it a solid addition to the nightly rotation if your kid is currently struggling with the concept of a 'personal bubble.'

Age Fit

Perfect for the 3-to-7 crowd. It's especially useful for preschoolers and kindergartners who are still figuring out that not everyone wants a hug or a face-to-face shout at 8:00 AM.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
95

It handles a common social friction point with humor and empathy rather than lecturing. Harrison isn't a 'bad' kid; he's just an enthusiastic hippo who loves his friends a little too closely.

Imaginative
72

The 'Space Saver' rhyme is a clever mnemonic, and Cale Atkinson’s illustrations give the characters a lot of personality, though the story follows a fairly standard 'problem-lesson-resolution' arc.

Safe
100

Completely safe. It's a modern picture book designed for classrooms and living rooms with zero red flags.

Enriching
94

It provides a concrete, physical tool (the arm-span rhyme) that kids can actually use in the classroom or on the playground to visualize boundaries.

Parent Info

Why It Might Be Great

  • The 'Space Saver' rhyme gives kids a physical way to measure their 'bubble' without feeling awkward.
  • Cale Atkinson’s art is bright, modern, and keeps the 'lesson' from feeling like a chore.
  • It’s just as helpful for the kids who need space as it is for the 'invaders' who don't realize they're doing it.
  • The tone is funny and light, so your kid won't feel like they're being scolded for being friendly.

What to Watch For

  • It is very much a 'lesson' book—if you're looking for a deep, complex plot, this isn't it.
  • Younger toddlers might just think the hippo is funny and miss the concept of 'personal space' without you pointing it out.

Conversation Starters

  • "How can you tell by someone's face that you're standing too close?"
  • "Why do you think Harrison wanted to be so close to everyone in the first place?"
  • "Let's try the 'Space Saver' move—does that feel like enough room for you?"
  • "Is there anyone in your class who sometimes forgets about personal space bubbles?"

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