You’ve Got This, Little Pangolin
by Tọlá Okogwu, illustrated by Shirley Hottier
Interest age: 3 to 7
Published by Simon & Schuster Children’s Books, 2026
About this book
Kúyè is a curious little pangolin who is sure he’s ready to be all grown up like his mama. He’s ready to learn how to climb, dig and hang, but what Kúyè is most determined to master is the ‘the ball’ – the special way pangolins curl up to protect themselves. But his eagerness to “go go go” without listening to Mama keeps getting him into trouble. When the ball doesn’t go so well, Mama suggests waiting a while, but a frustrated Kúyè doesn’t listen to her advice. He wanders off to keep practising by himself. But when the tiny pangolin comes face to face with a hungry snake, he quickly realises why listening to Mama is so important.
This sweet, reassuring tale explores a theme that parents and teachers will be all too familiar with – a youngster’s eagerness to do things their own way. Here in the story, we see Kúyè rushing to do everything independently without listening and learning from his Mama. Eventually, the little creature realises that rushing isn’t always the best option and that with his mother’s guidance, some lessons are worth waiting for. The important message is told comically while also offering reassurance. With a beautiful colour palette of warm purples and vibrant oranges, the funny scenes are depicted brilliantly and are full of life and expression.
About the author
About the illustrator
About the illustrator
Illustrator
Shirley is a mixed-heritage French illustrator based in Edinburgh. A former architect/urban designer, she won the FAB Prize in 2021 and is now devoted to her illustration career, ranging from children's books to editorial and site-specific artwork. After illustrating her first picture book in the US for Little Bee Books in 2024, she was commissioned for The Poetry World of John Agard and You've Got This, Little Pangolin. Shirley lives with her young family and enjoys crisp cold walks in the Scottish countryside followed by a hot chocolate by the fire.
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