Captain Monty Takes the Plunge
What’s inside...
Monty the Malodorous is a daring pirate known for his bravery and boldness, feared by sailors across the six or seven seas. Despite his fearsome reputation, Monty harbors a secret: he cannot swim and strictly avoids entering the ocean or taking baths, claiming that 'Real pirates don't bathe. Yar-har-har!' However, his life takes a turn when he falls in love with a mermaid named Meg. Monty's affection for Meg is tested when she faces danger and he is the only one who can save her by jumping into the ocean. Faced with a critical decision, Monty must confront his fear to save his beloved. A story of love, courage, and stinky boots, this tale explores whether Monty's love for Meg can help him overcome his deepest fear.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Captain Monty was afraid of water, and how did that change by the end of the story?
What does Captain Monty’s treasure chest represent? Can you think of something that is very special to you?
How did Captain Monty and Meg work together on their adventure? Why is teamwork important?
What would you have done if you were in Captain Monty’s place when faced with the big sea monster?
How do you think Meg felt when she helped Captain Monty overcome his fear?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring characters to life. Change your voice for Captain Monty and Meg to make the story more engaging.
Pause after exciting moments to ask your child what they think might happen next, encouraging them to use their imagination and predict the story.
After reading, connect the story to your child's experiences by discussing any fears they might have and how they can overcome them, mirroring Captain Monty’s journey.
Discuss the importance of friendship and teamwork in the book. Relate it to your child’s life by asking about their friends and how they help each other.
Encourage your child to draw their version of the 'sea monster' from the story, helping them visualize and interact with the book’s content creatively.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: Captain Monty, who is initially afraid of water, bravely faces his fear to rescue a friend in need.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that facing their fears, no matter how daunting, can lead to personal growth and help others in the process.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the story, the support and encouragement from Monty's friends play a crucial role in helping him overcome his fears.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of nurturing friendships and supporting each other during challenging times.
Example Lesson: Empathy and helping others
Explanation: Captain Monty's act of courage is motivated by his desire to help a friend, demonstrating empathy and selflessness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to consider the feelings and needs of others, and being motivated to help those in need.
Example Lesson: Resilience through challenges
Explanation: Despite his initial fear, Monty perseveres and successfully overcomes his challenge, showing resilience.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to remain resilient and persistent when facing their own challenges or when trying something new.
Example Lesson: Joy of overcoming personal barriers
Explanation: Captain Monty experiences a sense of joy and achievement after overcoming his fear of water.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to confront and overcome their personal barriers, finding joy in their achievements.