I Want My Hat Back

Accolades:
– The New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book
– Finalist for the Kate Greenaway Medal
– A Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book
– Featured on many “Best of” children’s book lists

This quiet, witty tale has won hearts around the world for its dry humor, expressive illustrations, and open-ended storytelling.

Story Outline

A bear has lost his beloved red hat. So, he sets out on a gentle journey through the forest, politely asking each animal he meets if they’ve seen it. Most say no. But when the bear suddenly remembers something, the story takes a sharp turn—and he finds more than just his hat.

It’s a simple tale told with stillness, humor, and just enough mischief to keep readers guessing.

What’s the Heart of the Story?

This book gently nudges us to think about honesty, the consequences of our actions, and how we make sense of right and wrong.

It touches on:
– Self-awareness — what we feel when something we love goes missing
– Social awareness — how our actions affect others
– Ethical decision-making — especially when someone has wronged us

There’s a sense of quiet justice in the story. But is it fair? That’s something children will wonder about—and that’s exactly what makes it so rich for discussion.

Let’s Talk About the Illustrations

Jon Klassen’s art is minimal, but never empty. The forest creatures don’t move much, yet their small expressions say a lot.

Children will notice the rabbit’s wide-eyed guilt, the bear’s blank sorrow, and then, finally, his fierce remembering.

It’s the kind of book where “reading between the lines” really means “reading between the eyes.” Invite children to look slowly. What do they notice on the second or third read?

Reflections for You, the Teacher

This is not your usual “lesson learned” kind of story. It’s clever, a little dark, and filled with pauses that spark curiosity.

Some children may cheer for the bear. Some may feel uneasy about the ending. Both reactions are okay. In fact, they’re the beginning of important conversations.

What does fairness look like?
Is revenge the same as justice?
What happens when someone lies—and how should we respond?

This book offers no clear answers. But it offers space to sit with the questions.

One more thing to reflect on
In many children’s favorite films or stories—from local folklore to popular cinema—the message is often clear: if someone wrongs you, you fight back. The hero wins. The wrongdoer loses.

But in this book, something quieter happens. There’s no grand speech. No obvious victory. Just a shift in the bear’s face... and the rabbit is gone.

Children might laugh, cheer, or feel a little uncomfortable. That’s okay. You might ask yourself—what kind of cultural stories are they used to? How does this story feel different?

Bringing those questions into the room can help students think more deeply—not just about this book, but about the stories they carry with them.

Questions for Your Classroom

For younger children (ages 5–7)
– How do you think the bear felt when he couldn’t find his hat?
– Why do you think the rabbit didn’t tell the truth?
– What would you do if you lost something special?
– Was it okay for the bear to take his hat back like that?

For older children (ages 7–9)
– What helped the bear suddenly remember who took his hat?
– Do you think the rabbit was scared? Guilty? Something else?
– Why do you think the ending is not shown?
– What could have been a different way for the bear to get his hat back?

Activities to Explore Together

Face Feelings
Pick a page and ask children to show with just their face how the character might be feeling. No talking—just expressions. It helps them notice emotion in subtle ways.

Missing Ending
“What do you think happened after the last page?” Let children draw or write their version. There’s no right answer—just imagination.

Thought Bubbles
Choose any page and add a thought bubble. What might the bear or rabbit be thinking? Children often pick up things we miss.

What Would You Do?
Make up little dilemmas for the group to solve together:
– “Someone in the class hides your drawing.”
– “You see someone take two turns in a game.”
What could you say or do in a kind and honest way?

A Gentle Bridge to SEL in the Classroom

This book reminds us that what’s unsaid is just as important as what’s spoken.

It’s a great starting point to help children notice feelings—both their own and others’. You can link it with classroom moments when someone feels left out, misunderstood, or needs help.

Use it as a reminder:
What do we do when someone lies?
How do we repair trust?
What helps us be brave and honest?

Stories like these don’t just teach—they open the door for lifelong questions.