Don’t Do It, Doug! (releasing February 10, 2026) is a hilarious and relatable story about a hamster with zero impulse control. Maudie Powell-Tuck perfectly captures the "goofy mishaps" that occur when curiosity gets the better of us, while Duncan Beedie’s expressive illustrations bring Doug's chaotic energy to life.

The book is an exceptional Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) tool that encourages children to think before they act. With a suspenseful ending involving a sleeping bear, it is a "grand fun" read-aloud that will have kids shouting along.

Kids will love this hilarious book about Doug, a hamster, who has no self-control. He tries everything, pushes all the buttons, and doesn’t seem to care what happens. Along the way he makes friends who praise him for trying to be better. When there’s a new temptation what will Doug do?
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

Such a cute story! I love that it’s numerous for little readers; my daughter giggled and giggled. The pictures are also adorable!

I loved it! Doug is cute, but he can’t help himself and gets in trouble a lot. The illustrations are fun, and the ending gave me a good laugh. Definitely a must read!

It’s a short book with very cute illustrations and giggles for little ones. Depending on your kid it could teach a good lesson with impulse control or could cause your child to imitate Doug and do the opposite when you ask them not to touch something they shouldn’t. Obviously it is a lesson they will eventually learn, but maybe best for the upper range of the recommended age. Overall, it’s a cute story with good pictures.

Don’t Do It, Doug! is a new insta favorite, storytime go to, and patron recommendation for SURE. This is the story of a mischievous hamster. He’s getting up to mayhem (beautifully pictured) in ANY situation that he’s put into. Not only will this read be a hoot, holler, and more when read with enthusiasm to little ones, but it opens up the door to an honest conversation about natural consequences, impulse control, good decision making, you name it! The words are short and to the point, but the gorgeous illustrative style brings this character and his wacky world to life.

This was a very cute book about a hamster with impulse control issues. It reminded me a lot of my adhd husband. if my daughter seems to be taking after him, I'll have to introduce her to Doug

I chose this book to read because I knew it would be something my 5 and 7 year old would love, and I was right! A super cute Doug fights his impulsive behavior to not get himself in anymore sticky situations. This book would be sure to give my girls a giggle.