Julia Vuori: The Fivefold Luck of Algot the Alligator

An alligator meets the joys and surprises of caregiving in a charming first book of a series.

Author: Julia Vuori
Finnish original: Algot Alligaattorin viisinkertainen onni
Publisher: Otava, 2025
Genre: children’s illustrated fiction
Number of pages: 32 pp.
Reading material: Finnish original, English translation

Algot Alligator has five little eggs, for which he strives to create the perfect environment. He dresses, walks, feeds, bathes and puts the eggs to sleep by singing reptile songs and reading educational literature. When the eggs hatch, the agile little alligators force Algot to give up the pursuit of perfection. Despite the constant balancing between security and freedom, Algot experiences the joy of living in the moment and being surprised. Relaxation, creativity and fun with the hatchlings bring Algot a sense of happiness. This lively, colourful and gentle book shows a relatable portrayal of family life and the challenges of caregiving. Despite the chaos around him, Algot feels content. It’s not the spot-clean home that matters, but the happy little green ones.

About the author
Julia Vuori