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When the Athensville Zoo closes for renovations, it means big changes for Plum and all his animal friends. The fifth and final book in award-winning author Matt Phelan’s series about a young peacock whose adventures are funny, hopeful, and always kindhearted. A hilarious perfect for reluctant readers and animal lovers everywhere.

Plum wholeheartedly believes that the Athensville Zoo is the best zoo on the planet—and the most perfect home. He and the other peacocks wander the grounds, mingling with, guiding, and delighting the visitors. He has friends in every habitat. And the Great Tree has the most comfortable branches to roost on each night. So when trucks roll in and signs are posted about the zoo undergoing a total renovation, Plum can’t think of anything worse! Where are they taking all his friends? What will happen to the Great Tree? Change is difficult, but with a little patience and help, Plum soon learns that embracing new things can make life even better.

From award-winning author Matt Phelan, Big Changes for Plum! is the fifth—and final—book in the young middle grade series about Plum the peacock and his adventures at the Athensville Zoo. With short chapters, these novels are just right for newly independent readers. Each book in the series can stand alone and tackles an emotional theme relevant and accessible to the audience. A great choice for fans of the Mercy Watson and the Princess in Black series.

© 2025 Greenwillow Books (Audiobook): 9780063296374

Release date

Audiobook: 28 January 2025