Robert Lopshire (1927–2002)

Summary: All the animal wants to do is to go to the zoo, but the boy and girl in the story tell him that he does not belong in the zoo. Throughout the entire story the animal tries to convince the boy and girl that he should be in the zoo by showing off his tricks, such as changing his polka dot colors. After showing the boy and girl his tricks, the children decide to tell him that instead of going to the zoo that the animal should go to the circus.

Review: Robert Lopshire captures young show more readers' attentions through his rhythmic words and his silly ideas. The premise of the book is an animal that wants to be able to fit in at the zoo so that he can stay there with the other animals, but he is continually turned down. The animal constantly shows hi eagerness through the use of this rhythmic statement, "Oh! They would put me in the zoo, if they could see what I can do" (p. 23). This statement said by the animal is repeated through the story, which can help beginning readers to stay captivated and eager by wondering what the animal will do next.

Lopshire's central message of his book, Put Me in the Zoo, is one that tells young children that you do not need to change yourself to fit in somewhere because there is always a place for you to be yourself. The animal is constantly questioned, "why should they put you in the zoo?" and he becomes disheartened by the negative outlook of his amazing talents (p. 13). In the end the animal realizes he can take his talents to the circus where he will be loved for who he is. show less

“Put Me in the Zoo” by Robert Lopshire is a very fun and imaginative story that captivated me. First of all, the illustrations are so wild and colorful. I love how the animal’s spots change color and shape and size constantly. This book also features that crossover effect, so that the illustrations truly fill the entire page and help make this fantasy world come to live. I also like how the lines rhyme, because it adds to the whimsical nature of the story. In the end, I think the show more message is about finding a place to call home where you are not only welcomed and wanted, but can also thrive to your fullest potential. The animal was not even welcomed at the zoo, so shouldn’t be worried about getting in. Instead, he was very valued at the circus, and could be himself! show less

"Put Me in the Zoo" is an excellent book for young readers. The flow is great and I love how Robert Lopshire uses great language and tone. It is a silly book. His use of color in his illustrations brightens the book up even further. I recommend the book to young readers and parents trying to bond with their child through readings.

The book is a really cute picture book that includes humor, imagination, and magic. It's a very simple book, with rhymes, repetition, and bright illustrations. The pictures and colors really catch your eye as soon as you flip the page. With the creature's magical ability to move his spots and change their color, he believes he should live in the zoo (but two kids convince him he should try the circus). There is an important theme/lesson of belonging and finding the right place for yourself. show more Sometimes where you think you belong isn't going to be the best place for you. show less