Although I enjoyed the illustrations, I found this book to be clunky, and unsuitable for children. With forced, choppy dialog and words that I would not expect the intended audience to understand, this book was a poor attempt at a fun story for children. I'm not sure if the underlying moral was meant to be so overt, instead of subtle, like an Aesop's fables. The book also discourages children from doing things independently and encourages blind obedience. The way Thomas's father and his disappearance are introduced in both random and unbelievable even for a children's book. It would be insulting to expect a child to enjoy more than the illustrations of this book.

A sweet story, but not exactly what I was expecting. The illustrations were lovely, though, very vivid colors.

The book had some interesting language "shall" and "henceforth" which was odd for a kids' book. The story was a little predictable, but what do you expect from a children's book. I like the way Thomas owned up to his mistake. It was a decent book.

I thought this was a lovely story. The illustrations are beautiful and will help engage children with the book. I would love to read more about the adventures that Thomas goes on so please consider writing a sequel. I can't wait till my son is old enough to read this story.

Excellent illustrations. Simple story about a curious turtle that ventures from his safe home in Placid Pond despite his mother's warnings and a promise to obey. He encounters danger along the way. No fear, he is happily reuinted with Mother Turtle in the end, admitting wrong-doing and promising to listen to instructions. Perhaps that is the main message of this picture book.