Benny and Penny in The Big No-No!
#1 in Benny and Penny Series
on Goodreads (1,082)
What’s inside...
In this Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Winner, Benny and his sister Penny know it’s wrong to sneak into someone else’s backyard but their mysterious new neighbor – or is it a monster? – may be a thief. They go snooping and discover a lot about themselves and…a new friend. Bestselling children’s artist Geoffrey Hayes enchants early readers with his charming and subtle storytelling. In this lively caper, the artist’s small-scale mice take on large-scale issues with enormous comics mastery.
Discussion points
Why do you think Benny and Penny were curious about the new neighbor?
What are some ways Benny and Penny could solve their problem without sneaking?
How do you feel when someone borrows something of yours without asking?
What do you think is the 'Big No-No' in the story, and why is it important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own experiences with friendships and sharing, making connections to Benny and Penny’s story.
Ask your child to think about a time they solved a problem with a friend and compare it to Benny and Penny’s approach.
Emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting others' feelings and property, reinforcing the moral of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding boundaries and respecting privacy
Explanation: In 'Benny and Penny in The Big No-No!', the characters learn about the consequences of not respecting someone's privacy when they sneak into a new neighbor's yard without permission.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the importance of asking for permission before entering someone else’s space, such as a sibling's room or a classmate's desk area.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and conflict resolution
Explanation: Throughout the book, Benny and Penny encounter various challenges and misunderstandings that they have to work through, providing a blueprint for young readers on how to manage conflicts.
Real-World Application: This can help children navigate their own interpersonal conflicts at school or in the playground by encouraging dialogue and seeking to understand different perspectives.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: As the story progresses, Benny and Penny start to understand and empathize with their new neighbor, which changes their initial fearful and suspicious attitudes.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be open-minded and compassionate towards new students or neighbors, fostering an inclusive environment wherever they are.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: When Benny and Penny make a mess in the neighbor's yard, they see the direct result of their actions and learn about accountability.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that their actions have impacts and that they should think about the consequences before acting. This can translate to being more cautious and responsible in their daily activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of apologizing
Explanation: The siblings learn to apologize after realizing their mistake, which is an important step towards mending relationships and building trust.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of saying sorry when they’ve done something wrong, helping them maintain healthy relationships with family and friends.