Reviewed by Kate

Just Kidding, a lovely title, refers in this story to a goat. A careful reader may discover other meanings. The goat in question is the latest addition to a growing menagerie, overseen by a very patient father. His musings on the keeping (and disposing) of strange pets make for a funny and wise tale.

The writing is without fault, technically, although it reads more like a newspaper article or an essay than a story. The children are largely undeveloped, they are nameless and faceless. The goat has a name, Emma, and she is a great character, and I suspect there is some irony at work in referring to the children as "kids" throughout. But the result is a little impersonal, especially since one of the points the author is trying to make is the effect on children of the lies parents employ when animals disappear.

Having said that, however, I enjoyed the story. The tone is consistent throughout and some of the passages are downright hilarious.

Story by © Ian H Lester

Reviewed by © Kate

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