Zooman Sam

Zooman Sam (1999) is a children's novel by Lois Lowry. It is part of a series that Lowry wrote about Anastasia and her younger brother Sam.

Plot summary
The story centers around Sam Krupnik, an enthusiastic and imaginative first-grader who becomes deeply fascinated with animals and dreams of becoming a zookeeper. His class is preparing for "Future Job Day," and Sam is excited to present his career choice.

Sam's adventure begins with his decision to dress up as a zookeeper for his presentation. With the help of his family, he creates a detailed and authentic costume, complete with a safari hat and a badge. As Sam prepares for his big day, he immerses himself in learning about various animals, their habitats, and their behaviors, sharing his newfound knowledge with his classmates.

Throughout the story, Sam's enthusiasm and dedication to his "Zooman" persona highlight his creativity and determination. He practices his presentation diligently, impressing both his teacher and his peers with his passion for animals. The book captures the essence of a young child's excitement about their future and the joy of sharing their interests with others.

"Zooman Sam" is a charming and heartwarming tale that emphasizes the importance of following one's passions and the joy that comes from learning and sharing knowledge. It also showcases the supportive and loving environment provided by Sam's family, encouraging his dreams and helping him bring his vision to life.

Reception
Kirkus Reviews finds that "The plotting is leisurely, the story is slender, and a subplot about the training of the family dog barely registers." and "... the material runs out of steam before the novel ends." but "Fans of the Sam books may find satisfaction in the nicely foreshadowed but still unanticipated punch line." Rob Reid spoke positively "It's a hilarious scene that will have the elementary-age crowd laughing."