Goat Is the G.O.A.T.

When Goat eavesdrops on a barnyard conversation between two chickens who are admiring a bull who has won a prize, he hears them say, “He’s the G.O.A.T. The Greatest Of All Time.” Goat is thrilled, thinking they are talking about him.

Instantly, Goat imagines himself as the greatest animal in a parade showered with confetti by his admirers. But then Goat begins to wonder, “What makes me the greatest?”

Perhaps, Goat thinks, he is the fastest runner, but then Horse beats him in a race. Or maybe Goat is the strongest, but then Donkey outdoes him. Undaunted, Goat imagines himself as the greatest leader, but then, too, he fails to guide sheep like a border collie does. There must be other ways he can claim greatness, Goat thinks, but he is neither the farthest spitter, the highest jumper, the loudest, the muddiest, the fuzziest, or the bravest. Despondent, Goat thinks, “I guess I’m not the greatest of all time. I’m not even the greatest of right now.”

However, when a crisis evolves that only Goat can solve, he rises to the occasion and provides the solution. The barnyard animals respond, “You’re the G.O.A.T.” Refreshingly, Goat replies with a humble attitude, “Nope. I’m just a goat. And today it is my turn to be the greatest.”

Humorous and insightful, this amusingly illustrated children’s picture book confirms that all God’s children—and all other creatures—are uniquely created and have special abilities. Within the context of humility and community, each is to be celebrated.

(Nancy Paulsen Books)