Category: Educational Activities

Educational Activities: Who’s Writing this Story?! by Robin Newman, illustrated by Deborah Zemke

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Who’s Writing this Story?!
Author: Robin Newman
Illustrator: Deborah Zemke
7 May 2024
Creston Books
32 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Have you ever wondered who’s the real boss of a story? The writer or the characters who live to tell the tale? Or both together?

Follow the Three Little Pigs and the Big Bad Wolf as they argue with the writer over what kind of story to tell. Will the hero become the villain? Find out in this fun introduction to the essential components of all great stories.”

Need some reviews for Who’s Writing This Story?!

As another bonus, here’s the book trailer for Who’s Writing this Story?!

Educational Activities inspired by Who’s Writing this Story?!:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • Based on the cover, who do you think is writing the story?
    • Where and when do you think the story takes place?
    • How do you think the pigs and the wolf might change the story?
    • What questions on the back cover interest you most?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author–or the illustrator himself!–before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • Did the story turn out the way you expected? How was it different?
    • Which character did you like best? Why?
    • How did you react to the writer being booted from the story?
    • If you could change the ending of the story, what would you do?
    • What was your favorite part of the book and why?
    • Which illustration surprised you the most? Which did you like best?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
  • Fairytale Remix: Choose your favorite fairy tale or folk tale. Before you start rewriting, make a list of all the different elements of the story: characters, setting, plot, conflict, and resolution. Now, get creative and change some of those elements! Maybe Cinderella goes to the ball in a spaceship, or the Big Bad Wolf becomes a vegetarian. Think about how these changes would impact the story. Does the conflict change? Is there a different resolution? Write your new story, and if you want, illustrate it.
  • The Character Couch: Imagine you’re a talk show host or journalist. Choose one of the characters from Who’s Writing This Story? (or even the author of this book or the writer in the story!) and prepare a list of interview questions. You can ask about their thoughts on the original story, their motivations for changing it, or their opinions on the other characters. Find a friend or family member to act as your interviewee and record your “interview” for a fun way to share your insights.
  • Pigs, Wolves, & Puppets, Oh My!: This isn’t just any puppet show – it’s a full-​on production! Create puppets of the characters and the writer, but also make props and scenery to match the different settings in the story. You can use cardboard boxes, construction paper, fabric scraps, or anything you can find around the house. Then, put on a show for your family or friends, perhaps with sound effects and music.
  • Cover Creators Club: Gather your friends and family for a book cover design contest. Everyone gets to create their own cover for Who’s Writing This Story?. Encourage creativity and originality! Once all the covers are finished, put them up on display and have everyone vote for their favorite.
  • Further Reading: Just like our Educational Activities book last month (Hey Bruce! An Interactive Book), our featured book this month, Who’s Writing this Story?! isn’t your typical picture book. It breaks the fourth wall, meaning the characters in the story know they’re in a book and directly talk to the reader!

    Here are yet MORE picture books that use this playful technique. Which of these have you read before? Which would you want to read first?

 

Educational Activities: Hey, Bruce!: An Interactive Book by Ryan T. Higgins

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Hey, Bruce!: An Interactive Book
Author: Ryan T. Higgins
Illustrator: Ryan T. Higgins
20 September 2022
Disney Hyperion
48 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “In Hey, Bruce!, Bruce the bear experiences … well, whatever readers want him to.

Rupert, Thistle, and Nibbs, the fun-​loving mice in Bruce’s begrudgingly expansive family, guide readers on a quest for a fun reading experience, with Bruce the ever-​reluctant star. As readers turn the page, flip the book, and follow the mice’s increasingly silly instructions, Bruce is sent flying and tumbling—all as he looks right up the reader’s nose! How will you interact with Bruce?

Bruce’s life is what YOU, the reader, make it in this special interactive addition to the award-​winning Mother Bruce series.”

Educational Activities inspired by Hey, Bruce!:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • Take a good look at the cover. What clues can you find about what might happen in the story? What does Bruce’s expression tell you?
    • Knowing it’s an interactive book, what sorts of silly things do you think the mice might ask you to do?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author–or the Bruce himself!–before reading the book?
    • Have you read any of the other Mother Bruce books by Ryan T. Higgins? If so, what’s one thing you remember about them?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • One mouse says he can see up the reader’s nose. How did you react to that?
    • What was the funniest or most surprising thing that the mice asked you to do?
    • What did you want to do beyond what the mice asked you to do?
    • Did you feel sorry for Bruce at any point?
    • What was your favorite part of the book and why?
    • Which illustration surprised you the most? Which did you like best?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
  • Bruce Says! Play a round of “Bruce Says” – have one person be “Bruce” and give silly commands from the book (“Pat Bruce’s head!” or maybe “Tickle Bruce’s toes!”).
  • The Giggles Report: Draw a picture of the funniest part of the book. Write a silly caption to go with it!
  • Build a Bruce Fort: Build your own cozy naptime fort with blankets and pillows – just like Bruce would love!
  • Rhyme Masters: Pick a word from the book (shake, wiggle, nose) and write as many rhymes for it as you can!
  • Your Interactive Story: What silly things would YOU put in an interactive book? Write or draw your ideas!
  • Further Reading: Hey Bruce! An Interactive Book isn’t your typical picture book. It breaks the fourth wall, meaning the characters in the story know they’re in a book and directly talk to the reader!

    Here are some other picture books that use this playful technique. Which of these have you read before? Which would you want to read first?

Educational Activities: Gina Kaminski Saves the Wolf by Craig Barr-​Green, illustrated by Francis Martin

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Gina Kaminski Saves the Wolf
Author: Craig Barr-​Green
Illustrator: Francis Martin
30 March 2024
Kane Miller EDC Publishing
32 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “An empowering retelling of Little Red Riding Hood about challenging the traditional narratives we are told, with a confident, autistic character at its heart.

Gina Kaminski is here to tell you three facts.

1 – Little Red Riding Hood is full of BIG mistakes.
2 – She is off to fairy tale land to fix them.
3 – She WILL save the wolf.

Who’s afraid of the big bad wolf? Certainly not Gina as she takes the narrative lead and tells the story in her own distinctive way. With fantastic illustrations from Francis Martin, and an innovative use of pictorial emoji language, this is the ideal book to empower every child to be the hero of their own story.”

Need some reviews for Gina Kaminski Saves the Wolf?

Educational Activities inspired by Gina Kaminski Saves the Wolf:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • Look at the book’s cover. What do you think this story will be about? What clues does the cover give you?
    • Based on the title, Gina Kaminski Saves the Wolf, what do you think will happen in the story?
    • The cover and illustrations inside use emojis. How do you think emojis will be used to tell the story?
    • The back cover mentions that Gina thinks the story of Little Red Riding Hood is full of mistakes and that she will fix them. 
      • What do you know about the story of Little Red Riding Hood?
      • How do you think Gina will change this story?
    • Why do you think Gina wants to save the wolf? What does this tell you about her character?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author–or the illustrator!–before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • How did you feel about Gina’s journey? Could you relate to her feelings and reactions?
    • How did Gina challenge the traditional narrative of Little Red Riding Hood? What does this teach us about storytelling?
    • How did the use of emojis enhance your understanding of Gina’s feelings? Was there a particular emoji that stood out to you?
    • How does Gina’s interaction with the wolf change your perspective on “villains” in fairy tales?
    • How does Gina’s neurodivergence influence her adventure in fairy-​tale land? What strengths does she demonstrate?
    • If you could change one thing about a classic fairy tale, what would it be and why?
    • What was your favorite part of the book and why?
    • Which illustration surprised you the most? Which did you like best?
    • What was your favorite part of the story, and why?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
  • Create Your Adventure Hat: Design and create your own adventure hat inspired by Gina. Think about what makes you unique and how you could represent that on your hat. Use craft supplies to bring your design to life.
  • Be a Story Fixer: Choose another fairy tale you think could use an update. Write a new version where you fix any “mistakes” or update the story to reflect modern values. Share your new tale with classmates or family members.
  • Wolf Awareness Poster: Research real wolves and their habitats. Create an informative poster that explains why wolves are important to the environment and how we can help protect them. Present your poster to your class or family.
  • Sensory-​Friendly Reading Nook: Inspired by Gina’s search for a sensory-​friendly environment, design a cozy reading nook in your home. Consider what makes a space comfortable for you and try to include these elements.
  • Emoji Emotions Diary: Keep an emotions diary for a week using emojis to describe how you feel each day. Reflect on what made you feel that way and if there’s a pattern to your emotions.
  • Further Reading: Gina Kaminski Saves the Wolf takes us on a journey with Gina as she embarks on an adventure to right the wrongs of a classic fairy tale. This story, rich with themes of empowerment, courage, and creativity, invites us to think differently about the stories we know so well. Here’s a selection of picture books that challenge traditional narratives and celebrate diversity. Each book offers its own twist on friendship, adventure, and the importance of being true to oneself. Which of these stories are you eager to dive into next?

Educational Activities: Busy Betty by Reese Witherspoon, illustrated by Xindi Yan

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Busy Betty
Author: Reese Witherspoon
Illustrator: Xindi Yan
4 October 2022
Flamingo Books
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “From Academy Award winning actress, founder, and bestselling author, Reese Witherspoon, comes Busy Betty, a story about a creative, curious, and exuberant young girl who has big plans and an even bigger heart.

Busy Betty has always been busy … even when she was just a baby! When Betty gives Frank a big hug, she realizes he needs a bath, PRONTO! Her best friend, Mae, is coming over, and Betty can’t have the smelliest dog in the whole world! But giving Frank a bath is harder than she thought and just when everything seems impossible, with Mae’s help, Betty learns she can accomplish anything with perseverance, teamwork, and one great idea.

From Reese Witherspoon comes a smart and larger-​than-​life character who encourages young readers to celebrate what makes them unique and realize that anything is possible!”

Educational Activities inspired by Busy Betty:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What are you wondering about as you look at the cover and back of the book?
    • What activities do you think keep Betty so busy?
    • What do the colors on the cover tell you about the mood of the story?
    • Where do you think the story takes place?
    • Who do you think is in the photo on the back cover?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author–or the illustrator!–before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • Now that you’ve read the book, do you think that being busy is a good thing? Why/​why not?
    • Betty says all kind of interesting things (“sweet cinnamon biscuits,” “fantabulous,” “bouncing biscuits,” etc.). Which unusual word/​phrase is your favorite? Why?
    • Where did teamwork really come into play in the story?
    • What do you think was the most important lesson Betty learned?
    • Which illustration surprised you the most? Which did you like best?
    • What was your favorite part of the story, and why?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
    • If the book had a sequel, what do you think it would be about? 
  • Frank’s Fabulous Portrait: Betty’s dog, Frank, is quite a character, isn’t he? It’s your turn to be an artist. Draw, paint, or craft a portrait of Frank. Imagine all his funny expressions and the glittery mess he creates. You could even add real glitter to your artwork for that extra sparkle. Where will you hang Frank’s portrait in your home?
  • Glitter Galore Craft Day: Remember the glittery mess in the book? Let’s embrace the mess and create some glitter art. You’ll need glue, paper, and lots of glitter. Draw a picture with glue and then sprinkle glitter over it. Shake off the excess, and voila! You’ve got a sparkly masterpiece. It’s okay to get a bit messy – that’s part of the fun!
  • Puppet Show Extravaganza: Create puppets of Betty, Mae, and Frank using socks, paper bags, or crafted figures. Then, put on a puppet show retelling the story of Busy Betty. You can use a cardboard box as your stage. Invite your family to watch your show. It’s a fun way to bring the story to life!
  • Betty’s Busy Day Diary: Pretend you’re Betty and write a diary entry about your busiest, most fun day. What did you do? Who were you with? How did you feel at the end of the day? This activity will help you explore your feelings and creativity, just like Betty does in her adventures.
  • Further Reading: While Betty is the main character, Frank the dog plays a key role in this story, so let’s examine some other dog-​focused books. Which of these have you already read? Which of the others would you want to read first? (Click on any book cover for more information on these titles!)

 

Educational Activities: Eclipse by Andy Rash

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Eclipse
Author: Andy Rash
Illustrator: Andy Rash
5 September 2023
Scholastic Press
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “A boy and his dad experience a total solar eclipse in this heartwarming picture book by author and illustrator Andy Rash.

Shimmering rays shine around the moon. I try not to blink.

We are in the perfect place at the perfect time.

After hearing about the total solar eclipse happening in two months, a boy makes a plan with his father to go see it. They drive to the perfect campsite, not wanting to miss the couple of minutes when the sun will be completely hidden by the moon. When the moment happens, being together makes it even more special.

Based on a trip that author-​illustrator Andy Rash took with his son to see the eclipse in August 2017, Eclipse is a heartfelt and playfully illustrated ode to seeking out unique adventures and savoring the most special moments with the people you love. Back matter about eclipses and maps of eclipses’ paths across the United States make this book perfect for the STEAM curriculum.”

Educational Activities inspired by Eclipse:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What are you wondering about as you look at the cover and back of the book?
    • What do you already know about eclipses?
    • What are the characters on the cover wearing?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author–or the illustrator!–before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • How did the eclipse bring the father and son closer together?
    • What do you now know about eclipses that you didn’t before you read the book?
    • How did the author use time (e.g., two months ago, a day ago) to build excitement?
    • What was your favorite part of the story, and why?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
    • If the book had a sequel, what do you think it would be about?
  • Eclipse Time Capsule: Make your very own time capsule! Find a shoebox and decorate it with stars, moons, and anything else you like. Inside, put a letter to your future self about what you think an eclipse is, how you might feel seeing one, and what you hope to learn. Add some small items that are special to you now. Close the box and write a date in the future to open it, maybe on the day of the next solar eclipse!
  • Eclipse Shadow Play: Let’s play with shadows to make your own eclipse! In a dark room, shine a flashlight on a wall and use a small ball to create a shadow that looks like an eclipse. Now, imagine a story about someone watching the eclipse and act it out with your shadow play. What kind of adventures do they have?
  • Create Your Eclipse Viewer: Safety first! With the help of an adult, make a simple pinhole projector to safely view solar eclipses. You can find instructions online here, here, or here. Decorate your viewer with your favorite colors and designs.
  • Map Your Own Adventure: Draw a map of your neighborhood or town and mark a special spot where you think it would be great to watch an eclipse. Explain why you chose that spot – is it high up, open, or just really pretty?
  • Eclipse Time Travel: Imagine you could travel in time to any eclipse in history. Which one would you visit and why? Write a story or draw a picture of your time-​travel adventure.
  • Further Reading: Since Eclipse is about the sun and the moon, let’s examine some other books about one or both of those things. Which of these have you already read? Which of the others would you want to read first? (Click on any book cover for more information on these titles!)

Educational Activities: A Very Cranky Book by Angela & Tony DiTerlizzi

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A Very Cranky Book
Author: Angela DiTerlizzi
Illustrator: Tony DiTerlizzi
19 September 2023
Quill Tree Books
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “The first picture book collaboration from bestselling husband-​and-​wife team Tony and Angela DiTerlizzi is the charmingly irreverent tale of a very cranky book … who might not be so cranky after all.

Are you ready to meet the world’s crankiest book?

Cranky doesn’t want to be read. He just wants you to leave him alone. After all, there are so many other things you can do–ride a bike, play a game, or draw a picture. There’s no reason for you to be bothering him! But when other books show up for story time, will Cranky change his mind?”

Educational Activities inspired by A Very Cranky Book:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What do you think the story might be about, based on the title and cover?
    • The book character on the front cover says “Go away!” What makes you want to NOT go away and read this book instead?
    • What do you know about crankiness? What does it mean to be cranky? What makes you cranky?
    • What emotion is the book character on the back cover feeling? Is that crankiness or something else?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author–or the illustrator!–before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • Was reading this book the “worst idea in the history of ideas?” Why/​why not?
    • How serious is the book character when he tells you to walk away, keep walking, and don’t come back? How can you tell?
    • How did you react when so many book friends showed up for story time?
    • Why did the cranky book finally choose to join story time?
    • Was there a moment in the book that surprised you?
    • What was your favorite part of the story, and why?
    • Do you believe the cranky book will be more cheerful in the future? Why/​why not?
    • Would you suggest this book to a friend? Why/​why not?
  • Cranky Book Storyboard: Using large paper, draw a sequence of scenes from the book, capturing its key moments. In each scene, focus on the emotions of the characters, especially the cranky book. Use speech bubbles to add dialogue from the story or create your own!
  • Emotion Wheel Craft: Make an emotion wheel showing different feelings like cranky, happy, scared, and excited. Use the cranky book’s face as a model/​guide and draw expressions for each emotion. Spin the wheel and act out or discuss times you’ve felt each emotion.
  • Story Retelling with a Twist: Retell the story from the point of view of a different character, like the green book with the monster face or the pink fairy-​tale book. How might they have seen the events differently?
  • A Cranky Book Cover: Design a new cover for A Very Cranky Book. Think about how you would represent the cranky book and other characters, and what elements you’d include to show the story’s theme.
  • Further Reading: A Very Cranky Book deals with the important topic of emotions. Here are some other picture books that also explore emotions in various ways. Which of these have you already read? Which of the others would you want to read first? (Click on any book cover for more information on these titles!)