All Aboard the Circus McGurkus (Dr. Seuss Nursery Collection)
Dr. Seuss nursery collection Series
on Goodreads (134)
What’s inside...
Based on If I Ran the Circus, this train-shaped board book features big, bold flaps that allow babies and toddlers to peek inside the train cars to discover Seussian creatures hidden within. Crafted with sturdy board pages and an accordion binding, the book unfolds to create a delightful nursery room decoration. Filled with jugglers, clowns, and acrobats, this Seussian circus train promises to astonish and delight. The Dr. Seuss Nursery Collection introduces the beloved Dr. Seuss characters to the youngest of listeners with simple formats and engaging rhymes suitable for babies and toddlers at varying developmental stages.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-3
Length
8 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the circus in the book, and why?
How do you think the different animals and characters felt during the circus?
What kind of circus act would you love to perform, and what would it look like?
Why do you think teamwork is important for the circus performers?
If you could create your own circus, what unique attractions would you include?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, introduce your child to the concept of a circus and discuss the various elements and acts they might expect to see.
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading experience lively and engaging.
Discuss the illustrations with your child, asking them to describe what they see and how the pictures help tell the story.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book, helping them connect creatively with the story.
Relate the story to real-life experiences by sharing a memory of visiting a circus or watching a performance, which can deepen the connection with the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embrace creativity and imagination
Explanation: The book features the Circus McGurkus, a fantastical circus filled with whimsical characters and unbelievable acts, encouraging children to use their imagination.
Real-World Application: Children can use this lesson to enhance their creative thinking, during playtime or in solving everyday problems by imagining various solutions.
Example Lesson: Value of inclusivity
Explanation: The Circus McGurkus includes a wide variety of circus performers and animals from different backgrounds, promoting acceptance and inclusion.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to appreciate and celebrate diversity among their friends and in their community.
Example Lesson: Importance of resilience
Explanation: The performers in the circus face challenges but continue to perform, showcasing resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persist and keep trying even when they face obstacles in learning new skills or in their daily activities.
Example Lesson: Joy in participation
Explanation: The festive atmosphere in the book conveys that being part of an event can be joyful and fulfilling.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take part in group activities and community events, understanding that involvement can be a source of happiness.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for the arts
Explanation: The vibrant illustrations and poetic text celebrate the arts, from visual to performing arts, cultivating a sense of appreciation.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore and appreciate different forms of artistic expression, whether it’s drawing, dancing, or writing.