What do you think?
Rate this book
Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil
When Penny Pangolin receives her first tablet, she’s thrilled by the endless possibilities—messaging friends, discovering new things, and sharing moments instantly. But soon, Penny becomes so attached to her screen that she begins missing out on the world around her. Then one day, the unthinkable happens—her tablet disappears!
Through this unexpected setback, Penny embarks on a journey of self-discovery, realizing the value of unplugging and savoring the beauty and connections right in front of her. Can she find balance between her online adventures and real-life experiences?
“Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil” is more than a fun, relatable story for kids—it's a gentle wake-up call for readers of all ages about the importance of screen time moderation. With themes of responsibility, awareness, and reconnecting with the present, this book opens the door to meaningful conversations about healthy technology use.
Illustrated in vivid detail, this heartwarming tale encourages young readers to appreciate nature, build relationships, and find balance in their everyday lives. At the end of the book, you'll find discussion questions that help parents and kids reflect on their own screen habits, making it a perfect read for the digital age.
Perfect for kids 3-8, Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil is a must-read for families navigating the challenges of modern technology together.
Through this unexpected setback, Penny embarks on a journey of self-discovery, realizing the value of unplugging and savoring the beauty and connections right in front of her. Can she find balance between her online adventures and real-life experiences?
“Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil” is more than a fun, relatable story for kids—it's a gentle wake-up call for readers of all ages about the importance of screen time moderation. With themes of responsibility, awareness, and reconnecting with the present, this book opens the door to meaningful conversations about healthy technology use.
Illustrated in vivid detail, this heartwarming tale encourages young readers to appreciate nature, build relationships, and find balance in their everyday lives. At the end of the book, you'll find discussion questions that help parents and kids reflect on their own screen habits, making it a perfect read for the digital age.
Perfect for kids 3-8, Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil is a must-read for families navigating the challenges of modern technology together.
36 pages, Hardcover
Published October 1, 2025
4 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
October 8, 2025
In an era where screens dominate childhood experiences and digital literacy has become as fundamental as traditional reading skills, Wayne D. Kramer delivers a thoughtfully crafted children's book that addresses one of the most pressing concerns facing modern families. "Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil" emerges as both an entertaining story and a gentle yet effective guide for navigating the complex relationship between children and technology.
A Fresh Voice in Children's Literature
Wayne D. Kramer, who previously established himself with the "Heroes of Time" adventure fantasy novel series, demonstrates remarkable versatility in transitioning to picture books for younger audiences. His collaboration with illustrator Jade Zivanovic creates a cohesive narrative experience that balances entertainment with meaningful life lessons. Kramer's background in business and his extensive travels to nearly 40 countries bring a worldly perspective to his storytelling, evident in the rich cultural details woven throughout Penny's adventures.
The choice of a pangolin as the protagonist proves both educational and symbolically appropriate. These unique, scaled mammals serve as perfect metaphors for the protective barriers we sometimes need in our increasingly connected world. Kramer's decision to feature an endangered species also subtly introduces young readers to conservation awareness, adding layers of educational value beyond the primary narrative.
Visual Storytelling Excellence
Jade Zivanovic's illustrations deserve particular recognition for their role in bringing this story to life. Her background in concept art and visual storytelling shines through in every page, creating vibrant, detailed scenes that capture both the beauty of the natural world and the allure of digital screens. The contrast between Penny's outdoor adventures and her screen-focused moments is rendered with subtle artistic choices that reinforce the story's themes without being heavy-handed.
The illustrations successfully balance realism with whimsy, making the anthropomorphic characters feel authentic while maintaining the magical quality essential to children's literature. Zivanovic's attention to detail extends to background elements, wildlife identification guides, and environmental storytelling that rewards careful observation from young readers.
Narrative Structure and Character Development
The story follows a classical arc that young readers can easily follow while providing enough complexity to maintain adult interest during shared reading experiences. Penny's character development feels authentic and relatable, avoiding the trap of creating an unrealistically perfect protagonist. Her initial excitement about receiving the tablet, subsequent overuse, and eventual realization about balance mirror real experiences many children face today.
Kramer skillfully avoids demonizing technology entirely, instead presenting a nuanced view that acknowledges both the benefits and potential drawbacks of screen time. The family dynamics feel genuine, with parents who struggle with their own device usage while trying to guide their daughter toward healthy habits. This honest portrayal of imperfect adults makes the story more credible and useful for family discussions.
The pacing allows for natural breathing room between plot points, giving young readers time to process the lessons being presented. The temporary loss of Penny's tablet serves as an effective plot device that creates genuine consequences without feeling contrived or overly dramatic.
Educational Value and Real-World Application
Beyond its entertainment value, the book serves as an excellent conversation starter for families navigating screen time boundaries. The story presents practical scenarios that children encounter daily, from dinner table distractions to homework avoidance. Parents will appreciate the balanced approach that neither vilifies technology nor ignores its potential for overuse.
The included educational materials enhance the book's value significantly. The pangolin facts section provides scientific information that satisfies curious young minds, while the wildlife identification guide encourages readers to engage with the natural world depicted in the story. The "Don't Become a Screen Zombie" section offers practical advice without being preachy or alarmist.
Thematic Depth and Cultural Relevance
The environmental themes woven throughout the narrative add depth without overwhelming the primary focus on digital balance. Penny's appreciation for wildlife and natural beauty serves as a compelling alternative to screen-based entertainment, encouraging readers to find joy in outdoor exploration and observation.
The book addresses contemporary parenting challenges with sensitivity and understanding. Rather than offering simple solutions to complex problems, it acknowledges that finding balance requires ongoing effort and family cooperation. The portrayal of parents who also struggle with device boundaries adds authenticity and removes the burden of perfection from young readers.
Literary Merit and Age Appropriateness
The writing style strikes an ideal balance for the target age group of 3-8 years, with vocabulary that challenges without frustrating beginning readers. Sentence structure varies appropriately, maintaining interest while building reading skills. The dialogue feels natural and age-appropriate, capturing how children actually speak and think.
The book's length allows for complete reading in a single sitting while providing enough content for meaningful discussion afterward. Chapter-like story segments make it suitable for bedtime reading or classroom use, with natural stopping points for reflection and conversation.
Final Assessment
"Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil" succeeds admirably in its ambitious goal of addressing one of modern childhood's most significant challenges. Kramer and Zivanovic have created a work that respects both children's intelligence and parents' concerns while delivering an engaging, visually stunning story.
The book's greatest strength lies in its refusal to oversimplify complex issues. Rather than presenting technology as inherently good or bad, it encourages thoughtful consideration of how digital tools fit into a well-rounded life. This nuanced approach makes it a valuable resource for families, educators, and librarians seeking materials that reflect contemporary realities.
The additional educational content, from pangolin facts to wildlife identification guides, extends the book's utility beyond the primary narrative. These elements encourage continued learning and exploration, supporting the story's central message about finding joy in the world beyond screens.
As the first installment in what promises to be an engaging series, "Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil" establishes strong foundations for future adventures while delivering a complete, satisfying story in its own right. It stands as evidence that children's literature can successfully address contemporary challenges while maintaining the timeless qualities that make stories memorable and meaningful.
For families seeking thoughtful, beautifully illustrated books that spark meaningful conversations about modern life, Penny Pangolin's first adventure offers exactly the right balance of entertainment, education, and gentle wisdom that characterizes the best children's literature.
A Fresh Voice in Children's Literature
Wayne D. Kramer, who previously established himself with the "Heroes of Time" adventure fantasy novel series, demonstrates remarkable versatility in transitioning to picture books for younger audiences. His collaboration with illustrator Jade Zivanovic creates a cohesive narrative experience that balances entertainment with meaningful life lessons. Kramer's background in business and his extensive travels to nearly 40 countries bring a worldly perspective to his storytelling, evident in the rich cultural details woven throughout Penny's adventures.
The choice of a pangolin as the protagonist proves both educational and symbolically appropriate. These unique, scaled mammals serve as perfect metaphors for the protective barriers we sometimes need in our increasingly connected world. Kramer's decision to feature an endangered species also subtly introduces young readers to conservation awareness, adding layers of educational value beyond the primary narrative.
Visual Storytelling Excellence
Jade Zivanovic's illustrations deserve particular recognition for their role in bringing this story to life. Her background in concept art and visual storytelling shines through in every page, creating vibrant, detailed scenes that capture both the beauty of the natural world and the allure of digital screens. The contrast between Penny's outdoor adventures and her screen-focused moments is rendered with subtle artistic choices that reinforce the story's themes without being heavy-handed.
The illustrations successfully balance realism with whimsy, making the anthropomorphic characters feel authentic while maintaining the magical quality essential to children's literature. Zivanovic's attention to detail extends to background elements, wildlife identification guides, and environmental storytelling that rewards careful observation from young readers.
Narrative Structure and Character Development
The story follows a classical arc that young readers can easily follow while providing enough complexity to maintain adult interest during shared reading experiences. Penny's character development feels authentic and relatable, avoiding the trap of creating an unrealistically perfect protagonist. Her initial excitement about receiving the tablet, subsequent overuse, and eventual realization about balance mirror real experiences many children face today.
Kramer skillfully avoids demonizing technology entirely, instead presenting a nuanced view that acknowledges both the benefits and potential drawbacks of screen time. The family dynamics feel genuine, with parents who struggle with their own device usage while trying to guide their daughter toward healthy habits. This honest portrayal of imperfect adults makes the story more credible and useful for family discussions.
The pacing allows for natural breathing room between plot points, giving young readers time to process the lessons being presented. The temporary loss of Penny's tablet serves as an effective plot device that creates genuine consequences without feeling contrived or overly dramatic.
Educational Value and Real-World Application
Beyond its entertainment value, the book serves as an excellent conversation starter for families navigating screen time boundaries. The story presents practical scenarios that children encounter daily, from dinner table distractions to homework avoidance. Parents will appreciate the balanced approach that neither vilifies technology nor ignores its potential for overuse.
The included educational materials enhance the book's value significantly. The pangolin facts section provides scientific information that satisfies curious young minds, while the wildlife identification guide encourages readers to engage with the natural world depicted in the story. The "Don't Become a Screen Zombie" section offers practical advice without being preachy or alarmist.
Thematic Depth and Cultural Relevance
The environmental themes woven throughout the narrative add depth without overwhelming the primary focus on digital balance. Penny's appreciation for wildlife and natural beauty serves as a compelling alternative to screen-based entertainment, encouraging readers to find joy in outdoor exploration and observation.
The book addresses contemporary parenting challenges with sensitivity and understanding. Rather than offering simple solutions to complex problems, it acknowledges that finding balance requires ongoing effort and family cooperation. The portrayal of parents who also struggle with device boundaries adds authenticity and removes the burden of perfection from young readers.
Literary Merit and Age Appropriateness
The writing style strikes an ideal balance for the target age group of 3-8 years, with vocabulary that challenges without frustrating beginning readers. Sentence structure varies appropriately, maintaining interest while building reading skills. The dialogue feels natural and age-appropriate, capturing how children actually speak and think.
The book's length allows for complete reading in a single sitting while providing enough content for meaningful discussion afterward. Chapter-like story segments make it suitable for bedtime reading or classroom use, with natural stopping points for reflection and conversation.
Final Assessment
"Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil" succeeds admirably in its ambitious goal of addressing one of modern childhood's most significant challenges. Kramer and Zivanovic have created a work that respects both children's intelligence and parents' concerns while delivering an engaging, visually stunning story.
The book's greatest strength lies in its refusal to oversimplify complex issues. Rather than presenting technology as inherently good or bad, it encourages thoughtful consideration of how digital tools fit into a well-rounded life. This nuanced approach makes it a valuable resource for families, educators, and librarians seeking materials that reflect contemporary realities.
The additional educational content, from pangolin facts to wildlife identification guides, extends the book's utility beyond the primary narrative. These elements encourage continued learning and exploration, supporting the story's central message about finding joy in the world beyond screens.
As the first installment in what promises to be an engaging series, "Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil" establishes strong foundations for future adventures while delivering a complete, satisfying story in its own right. It stands as evidence that children's literature can successfully address contemporary challenges while maintaining the timeless qualities that make stories memorable and meaningful.
For families seeking thoughtful, beautifully illustrated books that spark meaningful conversations about modern life, Penny Pangolin's first adventure offers exactly the right balance of entertainment, education, and gentle wisdom that characterizes the best children's literature.
November 6, 2025
Picture this: you're desperately searching for a children's book that doesn't make you cringe during the fifteenth bedtime reading, and suddenly you discover a story that actually makes you think, "Finally, someone gets it." Wayne D. Kramer's "Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil" is that rare gem that speaks directly to the heart of modern parenting struggles without preaching from a soapbox.
As a parent navigating the minefield of screen time negotiations, I found myself nodding along with Penny's journey from tablet obsession to mindful balance. Kramer doesn't paint technology as the villain here—instead, he creates a nuanced exploration of how easily we all slip into digital autopilot. When Penny's father tries three times to get her attention in the car, I felt that familiar pang of recognition from my own household dynamics.
The genius lies in how Kramer handles the parents' own screen habits. Too many children's books present perfect adult figures, but here we see parents who acknowledge their own struggles with device boundaries. This honesty transforms a simple cautionary tale into a family conversation starter.
Jade Zivanovic's illustrations deserve special mention for their ability to capture both the vibrant beauty of the natural world and the hypnotic pull of screens. The contrast is subtle but powerful, showing rather than telling young readers what they might be missing.
The educational elements—pangolin facts, wildlife identification, and practical screen-time advice—feel naturally integrated rather than tacked on. My kids actually requested to look up more information about laughingthrushes after reading, proving the book's effectiveness in sparking curiosity beyond its pages.
This isn't just entertainment; it's a thoughtful tool for raising digitally literate, environmentally aware children.
As a parent navigating the minefield of screen time negotiations, I found myself nodding along with Penny's journey from tablet obsession to mindful balance. Kramer doesn't paint technology as the villain here—instead, he creates a nuanced exploration of how easily we all slip into digital autopilot. When Penny's father tries three times to get her attention in the car, I felt that familiar pang of recognition from my own household dynamics.
The genius lies in how Kramer handles the parents' own screen habits. Too many children's books present perfect adult figures, but here we see parents who acknowledge their own struggles with device boundaries. This honesty transforms a simple cautionary tale into a family conversation starter.
Jade Zivanovic's illustrations deserve special mention for their ability to capture both the vibrant beauty of the natural world and the hypnotic pull of screens. The contrast is subtle but powerful, showing rather than telling young readers what they might be missing.
The educational elements—pangolin facts, wildlife identification, and practical screen-time advice—feel naturally integrated rather than tacked on. My kids actually requested to look up more information about laughingthrushes after reading, proving the book's effectiveness in sparking curiosity beyond its pages.
This isn't just entertainment; it's a thoughtful tool for raising digitally literate, environmentally aware children.
November 6, 2025
In the landscape of contemporary children's literature addressing digital literacy, Wayne D. Kramer's "Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil" emerges as a pedagogically sophisticated work that transcends typical screen-time narratives through its integration of environmental education and character development.
The narrative structure demonstrates remarkable restraint in avoiding didactic messaging while maintaining clear educational objectives. Kramer employs what reading specialists recognize as "natural consequence learning," where Penny's tablet loss creates an organic opportunity for self-discovery rather than external punishment. This approach aligns with current best practices in social-emotional learning curricula.
From a literacy development standpoint, the text offers rich vocabulary embedded within accessible sentence structures. Terms like "rummaged," "agitated," and "defensive" challenge emerging readers while context clues support comprehension. The dialogue authentically reflects contemporary child speech patterns, facilitating reader identification and engagement.
The interdisciplinary elements particularly strengthen the work's classroom utility. The seamless integration of wildlife education—specifically the focus on endangered pangolins and various laughingthrush species—models how environmental science can be woven into character-driven narratives. The included factual appendices transform the book into a cross-curricular resource suitable for both language arts and science instruction.
Zivanovic's visual narrative demonstrates sophisticated understanding of how illustration supports comprehension development. The progression from screen-focused compositions to nature-rich spreads provides visual scaffolding for the thematic journey, supporting visual literacy skills alongside textual comprehension.
The book's treatment of family dynamics offers valuable material for discussions about healthy communication patterns and shared responsibility in managing technology use, making it an invaluable resource for both classroom and home environments.
The narrative structure demonstrates remarkable restraint in avoiding didactic messaging while maintaining clear educational objectives. Kramer employs what reading specialists recognize as "natural consequence learning," where Penny's tablet loss creates an organic opportunity for self-discovery rather than external punishment. This approach aligns with current best practices in social-emotional learning curricula.
From a literacy development standpoint, the text offers rich vocabulary embedded within accessible sentence structures. Terms like "rummaged," "agitated," and "defensive" challenge emerging readers while context clues support comprehension. The dialogue authentically reflects contemporary child speech patterns, facilitating reader identification and engagement.
The interdisciplinary elements particularly strengthen the work's classroom utility. The seamless integration of wildlife education—specifically the focus on endangered pangolins and various laughingthrush species—models how environmental science can be woven into character-driven narratives. The included factual appendices transform the book into a cross-curricular resource suitable for both language arts and science instruction.
Zivanovic's visual narrative demonstrates sophisticated understanding of how illustration supports comprehension development. The progression from screen-focused compositions to nature-rich spreads provides visual scaffolding for the thematic journey, supporting visual literacy skills alongside textual comprehension.
The book's treatment of family dynamics offers valuable material for discussions about healthy communication patterns and shared responsibility in managing technology use, making it an invaluable resource for both classroom and home environments.
November 6, 2025
Wayne D. Kramer's latest children's book represents a significant achievement in contemporary juvenile literature, addressing the complex intersection of technology integration and child development with remarkable sophistication. "Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil" demonstrates the author's evolution from his previous "Heroes of Time" fantasy series into more grounded, socially relevant storytelling.
The narrative architecture employs classical story progression while incorporating modern psychological insights about addiction patterns and behavioral modification. Kramer's decision to position the tablet loss as accidental rather than punitive reflects current understanding of how children process consequences and develop intrinsic motivation for behavioral change.
Character development follows realistic trajectories, avoiding the oversimplified moral frameworks common in didactic children's literature. Penny's arc from enthusiasm through dependency to eventual balance mirrors documented patterns in digital wellness research, making the story both relatable and psychologically accurate.
The collaborative visual narrative created with illustrator Jade Zivanovic merits analysis for its sophisticated use of color psychology and compositional techniques. The gradual shift from warm, vibrant natural settings to cooler, isolated screen-focused imagery supports the textual themes while operating independently as visual storytelling.
The book's educational appendices demonstrate thoughtful integration of STEAM learning principles, connecting narrative elements to scientific inquiry and environmental awareness. This approach aligns with current pedagogical trends emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and real-world application.
From a market perspective, the work fills a crucial gap in age-appropriate technology literacy resources while maintaining the entertainment value essential for sustained reader engagement. The production quality and thematic relevance position it favorably for both educational and recreational markets.
The narrative architecture employs classical story progression while incorporating modern psychological insights about addiction patterns and behavioral modification. Kramer's decision to position the tablet loss as accidental rather than punitive reflects current understanding of how children process consequences and develop intrinsic motivation for behavioral change.
Character development follows realistic trajectories, avoiding the oversimplified moral frameworks common in didactic children's literature. Penny's arc from enthusiasm through dependency to eventual balance mirrors documented patterns in digital wellness research, making the story both relatable and psychologically accurate.
The collaborative visual narrative created with illustrator Jade Zivanovic merits analysis for its sophisticated use of color psychology and compositional techniques. The gradual shift from warm, vibrant natural settings to cooler, isolated screen-focused imagery supports the textual themes while operating independently as visual storytelling.
The book's educational appendices demonstrate thoughtful integration of STEAM learning principles, connecting narrative elements to scientific inquiry and environmental awareness. This approach aligns with current pedagogical trends emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and real-world application.
From a market perspective, the work fills a crucial gap in age-appropriate technology literacy resources while maintaining the entertainment value essential for sustained reader engagement. The production quality and thematic relevance position it favorably for both educational and recreational markets.
November 6, 2025
There's something almost magical about stumbling upon a story that feels like it was whispered directly into your ear by a friend who truly understands. Wayne D. Kramer has crafted such a tale in "Penny Pangolin and the Tablet Turmoil"—a story that breathes with the gentle wisdom of someone who has watched children grow and change in our rapidly evolving digital world.
Penny herself emerges as a character you immediately want to protect and guide, not because she's perfect, but because she's achingly real. Her excitement over her first tablet mirrors every child's wonder at new possibilities, while her gradual disconnection from the world around her reflects a quiet tragedy playing out in homes everywhere. Kramer captures this transformation with such delicate precision that you feel the shift happening page by page.
The moment when Penny discovers her missing tablet creates a beautiful pause in the narrative—a silence that speaks volumes. It's in this space that the story's true magic emerges, not through grand gestures or dramatic revelations, but through small moments of rediscovery. The laughingthrushes become more than just birds; they transform into symbols of presence, of really seeing what's right in front of us.
Jade Zivanovic's illustrations dance between reality and dream, creating a visual rhythm that pulls readers into Penny's world. The countryside scenes practically hum with life, while the screen-focused moments feel deliberately muted, creating an artistic metaphor that children intuitively understand.
This isn't just a story about screen time—it's a love letter to curiosity, to family connection, and to the irreplaceable joy of being fully present in your own life.
Penny herself emerges as a character you immediately want to protect and guide, not because she's perfect, but because she's achingly real. Her excitement over her first tablet mirrors every child's wonder at new possibilities, while her gradual disconnection from the world around her reflects a quiet tragedy playing out in homes everywhere. Kramer captures this transformation with such delicate precision that you feel the shift happening page by page.
The moment when Penny discovers her missing tablet creates a beautiful pause in the narrative—a silence that speaks volumes. It's in this space that the story's true magic emerges, not through grand gestures or dramatic revelations, but through small moments of rediscovery. The laughingthrushes become more than just birds; they transform into symbols of presence, of really seeing what's right in front of us.
Jade Zivanovic's illustrations dance between reality and dream, creating a visual rhythm that pulls readers into Penny's world. The countryside scenes practically hum with life, while the screen-focused moments feel deliberately muted, creating an artistic metaphor that children intuitively understand.
This isn't just a story about screen time—it's a love letter to curiosity, to family connection, and to the irreplaceable joy of being fully present in your own life.
October 8, 2025
Great children’s book!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews