The Purple Llama That Saved the Town: What This Children’s Story Teaches About Misunderstanding and Redemption
In a town not unlike your own, where the streets hum with the quiet shuffle of everyday life and storms roll in without warning, a very unexpected hero makes his entrance. He is purple. He is furry. And, well… he spits.
Meet Mr. Pat Tooey, a purple llama who stumbles into a town looking for a warm bed and instead finds a chilly welcome. But before you shake your head or chuckle (because yes, llamas do spit), there’s something about this oddball character that’s bound to tug at your heart and your child's, too. This is a story that your kids need right now.
A Tale of Second Chances Told With Heart (and a Little Spit)
Written with the gentle rhythm and whimsical tone that echoes classic fables, "Patooey!" by Collin Hoffman is a story that sneaks in a big truth behind its silliness: sometimes we judge before we understand. And sometimes, the very thing we reject ends up being the thing that saves us.
When Pat Tooey innocently spits at townspeople not from rudeness but from reflex, he’s turned away again and again. The laughter from kids reading along will shift to quiet curiosity, and soon, to empathy. Why was he spitting? Why didn’t anyone give him a chance?
Then the lightning strikes. A fire breaks out. And in one perfectly-placed patooey, our llama hero does what no one else could—he saves the day. With heart and humor, this book teaches kids that everyone has a place, and even the misunderstood have something meaningful to give.
Why Parents Will Want This Book on Their Shelf
1. Teaches Empathy in a Way Kids Understand
Let’s face it, kids learn best when they’re laughing. Collin Hoffman knows this, and he leans into it with a character who is both hilarious and heartbreakingly misunderstood. Your child will giggle, yes but they’ll also learn about kindness, acceptance, and the power of not jumping to conclusions.
2. Encourages Conversation Beyond the Story
After the final page, don’t be surprised if your child starts asking deeper questions:
• “Why didn’t they let the llama stay?”
• “Have you ever felt left out?”
• “What would you have done?”
This is a story that stays with them. Not just on the bookshelf, but in their hearts.
3. Family-Friendly Fun With a Message That Grows With Your Child
Younger kids love the llama. Older ones recognize the message. And parents? You’ll love reading it aloud. (Plus, acting out the “Patooey!” moments might become a family favorite.)
4. Made With Love and It Shows
Author Collin Hoffman didn’t write this from a corporate boardroom. He wrote it in the cozy corners of a Buffalo suburb, while snow swirled outside and his three kids inspired every quirky, lovable detail. This is a dad telling a story not just to the world, but to his own children and that personal touch? You feel it in every word.
More Than a Book A Lesson in Being Seen
"Patooey!" by Collin Hoffman holds a special enchantment which connects deeply with its audience. The storyline provides comfort to children who experience social exclusion because it validates their existence.
The narrative teaches readers that the quality of being different does not determine whether someone belongs or not.
The next story time should include an invitation for Mr. Pat Tooey to visit your home. The character may exhibit a spitting action. The character brings about minimal disorder. The character may assist your child in developing kindness along with courage and acceptance.
"Patooey!" by Collin Hoffman should be obtained immediately. Sometimes people who save the day do not wear capes. Sometimes Mr. Pat Tooey spits