1 Zany Zoo
What’s inside...
When one fearless fox grabs the zookeeper's keys and opens all the cages, increasing numbers of animals behave in most unusual ways. The story unravels the antics of these wacky animals in the zaniest zoo around, as readers encounter each increasingly crazy creature. Illustrated by Colin Jack and written by Lori Degman, this book provides an entertaining peek inside what happens at the zoo before the gates open, featuring foxes who steal keys, beavers who cook chili, and hyenas who play the blues.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think each animal in the zoo would say if they could talk?
How did the actions of the sneaky fox change the story?
What was your favorite part of the zoo adventure and why?
If you could add another animal to the zoo, which one would it be and what funny things would it do?
How do you think all the animals feel at the end of the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
While reading, use different voices for each animal to make the story more lively and engaging for your child.
Pause after exciting moments in the story to ask your child to predict what might happen next.
After reading the book, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character, discussing why they made those choices.
Relate the zoo visit in the book to a personal or family visit to the zoo, asking your child to compare the experiences.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and problem-solving as explored in the book, relating it to everyday situations your child might encounter.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of creativity and imagination
Explanation: In '1 Zany Zoo,' the story unfolds through the eyes of a child who imagines what happens when zoo animals break free from their enclosures. This imaginative narrative encourages children to think outside the box and envision playful scenarios.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using their imagination to solve problems or create new games and stories, thus nurturing their creative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: The importance of following rules
Explanation: The book subtly highlights the consequences of the animals not being in their respective places, which can be seen as a metaphor for the need to adhere to rules for the safety and well-being of everyone.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that rules are in place for good reasons and following them can prevent chaos, much like the structured environment of their schools or homes.
Example Lesson: Cooperation and teamwork
Explanation: As the zookeeper tries to manage the playful chaos, the animals in the story must work together to restore order, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to work collaboratively in group settings, be it in school projects or team sports, understanding that collective effort can achieve great results.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: The diverse array of animals in '1 Zany Zoo' showcases a wide range of traits and behaviors, teaching children the beauty of diversity and the importance of accepting and respecting differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the unique qualities of their peers and embrace diversity, fostering an inclusive environment wherever they go.