About the book

Mr. Hoppy, a retired man, lives in a small apartment and nurtures a secret affection for his neighbor, Mrs. Silver. His rival for her attention is Alfie, a pet tortoise she fears is too small. To win her heart, Mr. Hoppy devises an elaborate scheme involving a backward-spelled poem and the purchase of dozens of tortoises of increasing sizes. He uses a metal mechanical grabber to swap Alfie for slightly larger reptiles over several weeks, tricking Mrs. Silver into believing her pet is finally growing through magic.

Children and fans of humorous fiction read this book for its clever wordplay and the mischievous ingenuity of the protagonist. It appeals to those who enjoy stories where small-scale deception results in a happy ending. Readers understand the mechanics of a long-term prank and how creative problem-solving can help an unassuming person achieve their goals. The story provides a lighthearted look at companionship and the eccentric methods people use to connect with one another in urban settings.

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