Disaster Dad: Animal Antics
Dad’s class trip to a wildlife park turns into chaos when he tries to get a newborn giraffe named after him.
Disaster Dad: Animal Antics is a comic family fiction title by Donncha O’Callaghan. In the children’s bestseller list we checked on 7 November 2026, it was number 5. This guide explains what the book is about, who it suits, how to talk about it and what to read next.
What is Disaster Dad: Animal Antics about?
Finn and Emma’s dad goes along on the class trip to a wildlife park. His plan is to photograph a newly born giraffe and have it named after him. Finn and Emma have to keep him out of trouble long enough for everyone to meet the giraffe.
It follows earlier Disaster Dad books such as Chicken Chaos and is built around the idea that a well-meaning grown-up can embarrass a child more than anyone else can.
Disaster Dad: Animal Antics: book details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Author | Donncha O’Callaghan |
| Series | Disaster Dad |
| Format | Hardback |
| Publisher | Bonnier Books UK (Eriu) |
| Published | 24 September 2026 |
| Genre | Comic family fiction |
| Age guide | 7 and up |
Ages marked as “suggested” are our own guidance, not the publisher’s. Editions and dates can differ between shops, so check the listing for the copy you want.
Why children enjoy Disaster Dad: Animal Antics
- Children enjoy watching an adult make the mistakes for once.
- A school trip setting is familiar, and the animal theme adds appeal.
- A famous Irish name on the cover gives it extra pull at home.
Reading and talking tips
Use these prompts to make reading time a conversation:
- Ask: “What is the most embarrassing thing a parent has ever done?” and be ready for answers.
- Look up giraffes together after reading and see which facts surprise you.
- Take turns reading Dad’s lines in your silliest voice.
An Irish connection
This title has an Irish link through its author, setting or subject, which makes it a good fit for our collection of Irish children’s authors and illustrators.
About Donncha O’Callaghan
Donncha O’Callaghan is a former Ireland and Munster rugby player. The Disaster Dad series draws on the idea of a dad whose enthusiasm keeps getting him into trouble.
Read more on our Donncha O’Callaghan author page.
If your child likes this, try…
- Milly McCarthy and the Doggy Daycare Drama by Leona Forde, number 9 in the list.
- Squad Girls by Evanne Ní Chuilinn, number 8 in the list.
- Tom Gates Is Not Famous (Yet) by Liz Pichon, number 12 in the list.
Browse the whole list in our Top 20 children’s books, or use our books by age guides to find your next read.
Frequently asked questions about Disaster Dad: Animal Antics
What age is Disaster Dad: Animal Antics for?
The publisher suggests 7 and up.
Who is Donncha O’Callaghan?
He is a former Irish rugby international who played for Munster and Ireland. The Disaster Dad books are his series for young readers.
Should I read the other Disaster Dad books first?
You can start here. Earlier books, such as Chicken Chaos, give more background on the family but are not required.
Where to find it: your local library, an independent bookshop or an online retailer. Library membership is free in Ireland; see our guide to using your library.