Interview with a Kangaroo: and Other Marsupials Too (Q&A)
#1 in Interview with a ... (Q&A) Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
If you could talk to animals, what would you ask? Get familiar with 10 extraordinary marsupials as they step up to the mic and share their habits, behaviour, likes and dislikes, favourite foods, and more. Each animal has its own story to tell and its own attitude! In this fun and fact-filled book, bite-sized text in a question-and-answer format is paired with colourful and engaging illustrations throughout, perfect for emerging or reluctant readers, or any young animal enthusiast who enjoys a bit of humour! Features 'interviews' with a kangaroo, koala, Virginia opossum, Tasmanian Devil, numbat, bandicoot, sugar glider, quokka and spotted cuscus. Plus, ideas for how to do your bit to help endangered species. Look out for other titles in the Interview with a Tiger and Interview with a Shark series.
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to carry your baby in a pouch like a kangaroo?
Why do you think marsupials have unique ways of taking care of their young?
If you could ask a marsupial any question, what would it be and why?
How do you think being a marsupial is different from other animals we've read about?
What was the most surprising fact you learned about marsupials from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine life as a marsupial and consider their unique characteristics. Use the question-and-answer format of the book as a model, prompting your child to think of their own questions about marsupials. Discuss the answers together and look up any additional information if needed. Highlight the importance of biodiversity and how each animal has a role in the ecosystem, which can be tied to the various marsupials discussed in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The book presents a Q&A format where children's natural questions about kangaroos and other marsupials are answered, sparking curiosity and promoting learning.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to ask questions about the world around them, enhancing their understanding and engagement with nature.
Example Lesson: Diversity in Animal Species
Explanation: Through engaging dialogue, the book introduces various marsupials, highlighting their unique characteristics and habitats, which teaches children about biodiversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect the diversity in nature, fostering a sense of responsibility towards wildlife conservation.
Example Lesson: Importance of Habitats
Explanation: The narrative discusses the specific environments where marsupials thrive, underscoring the importance of preserving these habitats for the animals' survival.
Real-World Application: Promotes awareness about ecological issues and encourages actions like recycling and conservation efforts at a local level.
Example Lesson: Information Gathering
Explanation: The Q&A format exemplifies how knowledge is acquired by asking informed questions, demonstrating effective communication.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these communication skills in school projects or daily interactions to gather information efficiently.
Example Lesson: Empathy Towards Animals
Explanation: By giving voice to the marsupials and answering questions on their behalf, the book creates a connection between the child and the animals, fostering empathy.
Real-World Application: This empathy can translate to more humane behavior towards animals and a deeper understanding of their needs and feelings in daily life.