Big Sky Mountain: The Beach Otters
on Goodreads (22)
What’s inside...
Another exhilarating adventure in the great outdoors, from HOTEL FLAMINGO author Alex Milway
Welcome to Big Sky a home for everyone!
Life never stays still for long on Big Sky Mountain. Rosa and Grandma Nan are off on an adventure to Toe-Dipper Bay, to see who's in trouble - a distress flare has gone up! When they arrive they find the beach covered in plastic rubbish, and a family of beach otters farming seaweed, while doing their best to tidy up. Rosa and Grandma Nan join in, but they have to find out who sent the distress flare - because who is that out wrecked out at sea? Rosa and Grandma Nan will need the otters' help to build a raft to get out there ...
An action-packed story featuring curious otters, wise hermit crabs and peckish puffins which addresses pollution and recycling in a gentle and friendly way for young children.
Why read this book
- Engaging adventure story improves literacy and attention.
- Characters teach valuable cooperation and empathy skills.
- Supports problem-solving and creative thinking development.
- Ideal for shared reading, strengthens family bonds.
Discussion points
Why do you think Rosa decided to help the otters on the beach?
How do you feel about the way the animals work together in the story?
What would you have done if you were in Rosa’s place?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone or an animal in need?
What did you learn about the importance of taking care of our beaches and the creatures that live there?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, focusing on the actions of the protagonist, Rosa.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them, to enhance their comprehension and recall skills.
Discuss the teamwork demonstrated by the characters and relate it to real-life situations where your child can work together with others.
Help your child make personal connections by asking if they have ever experienced anything similar to the events in the story.
Use the environmental theme to engage in a conversation about the local environment and ways your child can help to preserve it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Big Sky Mountain: The Beach Otters,' the characters must work together to solve problems and help each other out. This collaboration is central to the storyline and highlights the importance of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in school projects, sports teams, and family activities, learning that cooperation can lead to successful outcomes.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The story emphasizes the beauty and fragility of the beach ecosystem, promoting a respectful and caring attitude towards wildlife and natural habitats.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to take part in local clean-up days, be mindful of their environment, and learn about local wildlife and how to protect it.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter challenges that they must think creatively to overcome. This showcases proactive thinking and the importance of problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children approach obstacles in their lives with a positive, can-do attitude, encouraging them to find solutions rather than give up.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The otters and human characters learn to understand each other's perspectives through their interactions, promoting empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to consider how others might feel in different situations, which can foster better relationships and kinder interactions in their everyday lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of Adventure
Explanation: The book's adventurous plot encourages children to explore and be curious, teaching them the value of experiencing new things.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to try new activities, explore new ideas, and engage with the world around them with enthusiasm and curiosity.