The Very Worst Ever Series
Catch Zoo Later
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
In the third book of The Very Worst Ever chapter book series, a very unlucky kid experiences a suspiciously uneventful class trip to the zoo. Despite the presence of razor-toothed tigers and gigantic giraffes, nothing seems to be going wrong, which leaves him feeling uneasy. His worries are confirmed when he enters the reptile hideout and realizes the trip is doomed. The book features easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, making it ideal for emerging readers.
Why read this book
- Adventurous zoo escapade sparks imagination and curiosity. - Engaging, relatable animal characters foster emotional development. - Enhances problem-solving skills through playful storytelling. - Ideal for shared reading, strengthens family bonds.
The Big Picture
- Promotes teamwork and friendship
- Enhances empathetic understanding
- Relatable scenarios boost real-life connections
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases diverse animal species with engaging, vibrant illustrations.
- Characters from various habitats promote ecological awareness and inclusivity.
- Encourages appreciation for diversity through animal character interactions.
Age
5-9
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
What was your favorite animal in the zoo, and why?
How do you think the animals feel about living in the zoo?
Can you imagine a story about one of the animals escaping? What happens next?
If you could be any animal from the book, which one would you choose and why?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in a different setting, like a farm or forest?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you read the book together, pause on pages with different animals and ask your child to describe what they see and what they think about each animal.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts by asking them which animal they feel most connected to and why, fostering a deeper emotional understanding.
Use animal sounds and actions to make the reading experience more lively and fun, helping your child remember the story better.
After reading, have your child draw their favorite scene or animal from the book, opening a discussion about their artwork related to the book’s themes.
Discuss the concept of zoo habitats and animal care to introduce ideas about biology and responsibility towards animals.
What parents love
Fun and educational, perfect for bedtime reading!
Loved the colorful illustrations and animal antics!
Great for teaching teamwork and diversity.
My child wants to read it over and over!
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In the story, the characters take on the task of looking after the zoo animals, highlighting the importance of caring for others and fulfilling obligations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of responsibility by taking care of their pets or helping with chores around the house.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The characters work together to solve problems at the zoo, exemplifying how teamwork can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child's life through participating in team sports or collaborating with classmates on school projects.
Example Lesson: Respecting Differences
Explanation: The diverse range of animals in the zoo teaches the characters to appreciate and respect the differences in others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing diversity among their peers and learning to respect varying opinions and cultures.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters encounter and solve various challenges, demonstrating effective problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be reflected in a child's approach to overcoming obstacles in schoolwork or in social scenarios.