Hoppy Birthday, Jo-Jo! (Green Bananas)
#3 in Blue bananas Series
What’s inside...
Jo-Jo is not a happy little kangaroo. Her mom's just come home with a new baby. Now she's going to have to share her room, and worst of all, her mom and dad! But then it's her birthday, and her special party is full of surprises. Soon, Jo-Jo realizes that it's fun to be an older sister! A delightful story about growing up and sharing.
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of Jo-Jo's birthday and why?
How do you think Jo-Jo felt when everyone remembered his birthday?
If you were at Jo-Jo’s party, what gift would you have brought for him?
What are some ways you can make a friend feel special on their birthday?
How did Jo-Jo's friends help make his birthday party fun?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about how the characters' emotions in the story relate to their own experiences with birthdays or special events.
Ask your child to imagine and describe their ideal birthday party after reading the book.
Highlight the importance of thoughtfulness and kindness, as shown by Jo-Jo's friends in the story.
Use the book as an opportunity to discuss friendship and how caring for others can make them feel appreciated on special occasions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Celebrating Others
Explanation: The story centers around planning a surprise birthday party for Jo-Jo, showcasing the excitement and joy of doing something special for someone else.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by finding ways to make their friends and family feel special on their birthdays or any significant occasion, fostering a sense of generosity and thoughtfulness.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book work together to organize the birthday party, highlighting the importance of cooperation and collaboration.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to participate in group activities at school or in sports, learning to collaborate to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The group encounters several challenges in planning the party but finds creative solutions to each problem.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically and creatively when faced with obstacles, applying these skills in everyday challenges at home or school.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: Through their shared goal, the characters deepen their friendships and learn about the value of supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cherish and nurture their friendships, understanding the role of mutual support and camaraderie.
Example Lesson: Joy of Surprises
Explanation: The joy of giving and receiving surprises is a central theme, as the friends manage to keep the party a secret from Jo-Jo until the right moment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of surprise in showing love and affection, teaching them about empathy and the joy of making others happy.