Amanda Pig and the Really Hot Day
#20 in Oliver and Amanda Pig Series
What’s inside...
Rumor has it that Mrs. Farmer is making chicken soup, so the chickens are on the run—except for poor Little Chickie, who has a bad cold. No matter where she hides—the hayloft, a milk pail, or the sheep pen—her sneezes give her away. She is sure to be found soon! The unbeatable mother-son team of award-winning and bestselling author Jean Van Leeuwen, whose Oliver and Amanda Pig books are a children’s literature staple, and her son, up-and-coming illustrator David Gavril, have created a charming picture book very much in the spirit of Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type.
Character compass
Amanda Pig
Oliver Pig
Discussion points
How do you think Amanda Pig felt when it was really hot outside? What would you do on a very hot day?
What are some ways Amanda Pig tried to cool down? Can you think of other ways to stay cool?
Why is it important to drink water on hot days like the one Amanda experienced?
How did Amanda's family help each other cope with the heat?
What did you learn from how Amanda and her family dealt with the heat?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate Amanda Pig’s experience to their own by discussing similar hot days they have encountered.
Ask your child to draw parallels between how they and Amanda Pig stay cool, fostering a deeper connection with the story.
Discuss the importance of hydration and brainstorm different ways to remind ourselves to drink water, inspired by the book’s message.
Encourage empathy by discussing how they can help family members or friends on hot days, similar to Amanda’s actions in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Amanda Pig faces the challenge of a sweltering hot day and finds various creative solutions to cool down. This demonstrates effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think creatively and find solutions to problems they encounter, such as finding ways to stay cool during hot weather or addressing other discomforts.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the story, Amanda and her friends work together to come up with ideas to beat the heat. This highlights the value of collaborative efforts and teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in teamwork during group activities at school or in play, learning to value and listen to others' suggestions and working together towards a common goal.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Amanda adapts to the new challenge of the hot weather instead of letting it ruin her day. This shows adaptability in challenging situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of being flexible and adapting to unforeseen circumstances in life, such as changes in weather or plans.
Example Lesson: Enjoyment of Simple Pleasures
Explanation: The story illustrates how Amanda and her friends find joy and cooling relief in simple pleasures like playing with water and resting under the shade.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to appreciate and find joy in simple activities and moments, promoting a positive attitude towards life and gratitude for small blessings.