I Want My Hat Back

I Want My Hat Back is a picture book by Jon Klassen.

Bear is looking for his hat, and goes to the creatures of the forest in turn asking whether they've seen it. This includes Rabbit, who definitely didn't take the hat and would never steal anyone's hat.

Tropes used in I Want My Hat Back include:

• Disproportionate Retribution: Rabbit stole Bear's hat. So Bear kills and eats him.
• Dull Surprise: All of the animals have the same deadpan expression, including Bear at least until he realizes who stole his hat.
• Eureka Moment: Bear realizes that Rabbit took his hat.
• Suspiciously Specific Denial: Have you seen my hat?
  • No. Why are you asking me. I haven't seen it. I haven't seen any hats anywhere. I would not steal a hat. Don't ask me any more questions.
  • No. Why are you asking me. I haven't seen him. I haven't seen any rabbits anywhere. I would not eat a rabbit. Don't ask me any more questions.
• Nice Hat: It is indeed a nice hat and Bear would do anything to get it back. Including murder.
• Space Whale Aesop: Don't steal, or else whoever you stole from might kill and eat you.
• Wham! Line: I HAVE SEEN MY HAT.