Worm on the Job
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2026

Worm on the Job

Written by Maureen Fergus · Illustrated by Paul Hammond

A tiny worm aims to catch a thief and prove size doesn't matter.

3.8 Goodreads · 110 ratings
36 pages· AD730L
$19.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

Worm, a librarian with big dreams, seeks a new job as a security guard at the Invention Convention. Despite his small size and being, well, a worm, he believes he can stop a cunning thief. Can Worm convince the skeptical manager of his abilities and capture the elusive criminal? With his unyielding optimism and unique skills, Worm embarks on a whimsical adventure, challenging perceptions and showcasing that courage comes in all sizes. Will his determination be enough to save the day and secure his dream job?

From the publisher

Size isn’t everything. Especially when it comes to Worm, who’s willing to stretch his limits to get the job done! Worm loves being a librarian but has decided it’s time for a new job. He considers many options - lifeguard, deep-sea fisherman, window washer - but none of them quite fits his, um, skill set. Until he comes across a posting looking for a courageous security guard to keep a thief from stealing the Invention Convention’s exhibits during the night. It sounds like the perfect job for him! Unfortunately, the hiring manager doesn’t agree. Worm is too small! Also, he’s a worm. Can Worm convince the manager he’s got what it takes? And, if he does get hired, will he really be able to capture the dastardly thief? Award-winning author Maureen Fergus’s story about the loveable, winsome Worm is just the right kind of absurd to tickle the funny bones of young children everywhere. With his outsized self-confidence and can-do spirit, Worm is sure to steal their hearts as well. Some facts about worms are introduced right into the story, such as when Worm sells himself to the manager by asking, “Can you survive being cut in half, eat your own weight in soil every day and turn kitchen scraps into valuable fertilizer?” Award-winning illustrator Paul G. Hammond’s artwork is packed with loads of clever details (and hilarious inventions!) and manages to make Worm the star of every page, even as he’s interacting with the much larger creatures in the human world. This is a great story for character education lessons on optimism and perseverance.

At a glance
Format
Hardcover
Pages
36
Reading age
3–7
Audience
Picture
Lexile
AD730L
Themes & topics
The author

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Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
~4.7
F&P level
~Q
Publication
Published
May 5, 2026
Edition
Language
English
Type
Picture Book
Identifiers
ISBN
9781525313165

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