Harrison Spader, Personal Space Invader

Author: Christianne Jones
Illustrator: Cale Atkinson
Publisher: Curious Fox / Raintree

A story about Harrison the hippo, who is unwittingly invading his friend’s personal space. This book discusses situations that will be familiar to children where personal space may be an issue. The book discusses some practical solutions, and how Harrison tries to use these with his friends. With practice and help from his Dad, Harrison becomes more able to think about other’s personal space.

This book is useful as it supports children who invade other’s space with practical suggestions. It can also help those who have their space invaded by raising awareness of the cause of the behaviour, as young children may perceive some of the behaviour described in the book as being deliberately hurtful. This book highlights how this behaviour may impact both sides of the interaction.

The messages we found in this book:

Acknowledgement:

Harrison takes his Dad’s advice on board but doesn’t quite get it right all the time. Towards the end of the book, Harrison’s friends appreciate the effort he has put in to respecting their space, even if he does not manage 100% of the time.
This book acknowledges the effort Harrison puts into changing his behaviour, it is not painted as an easy task, but is achievable.
This book is careful to discuss the feelings of all affected by Harrison’s closeness, without ascribing blame or fault to anybody involved.

Guidance:

In the story, Harrison is a friendly and kind character, which can help facilitate discussion with children who are experiencing similar issues without having them feel they have done something “wrong”.
Harrison’s Dad’s character offers practical tips for considering other’s personal space, as well as some ways to practice, and exceptions to the rules.

Hope & Inspiration:

The story has a positive ending where Harrison is more able to maintain personal space, which his friends appreciate. Harrison is still somebody who likes to hug and be physically close to others, and everybody in the story is pleased with his progress.