Sunny is a fun-loving and mischievous bird who learns a valuable lesson about obeying rules when he escapes from his cage. Soon he faces an unexpected problem. Sunny is Ivory's beloved pet, and he is very disappointed when she tells him that she will be gone all day and that he must stay in his cage. While she is gone, Sunny decide that he does not want to stay locked up. After picking at the latch with his beak, he manages to open the door, fly out of his cage, and explore the rest of the house. Sunny has hours of fun until he is suddenly confronted with Hammond, the family cat. Sunny Goes Out to Play carries a message for young readers about listening to the advice of their elders and following the rules for their own safety.