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Faith
Responsibility
Mythology
Mythology And Legends
Fairy Tales

Jonah and the Whale

Usborne little board books Series

2023
by
Russell Punter
Andrew Mcdonough
illustrations by
Bao Luu
3.75
on Goodreads (4)

What’s inside...

When Jonah decides to run away from God, he finds himself in trouble. A stormy sea leads to him being swallowed up by a whale. Will he change his ways and escape? Find out in this beautifully illustrated retelling of a classic Bible tale for the very young. Perfect for cosy bedtime reading.

  • Why read this book

    • Classic tale encourages moral learning and growth.
    • Engaging narrative fosters literacy and comprehension.
    • Illustrations captivate and spark imagination.
    • Timeless story, perfect for family bonding.

  • The Big Picture

    • Teaches importance of responsibility and consequences.
    • Highlights the power of second chances and redemption.
    • Encourages discussions on forgiveness and making amends.

  • What parents love

    • Captivates kids with vivid imagery and suspenseful plot.
    • Handles sensitive themes with care and appropriate depth.
    • Perfect blend of fun storytelling and moral lessons.
    • Engaging, educational, and beautifully illustrated.

  • Diversity & Representation

    • Showcases cultural and historical aspects of Biblical Middle East.
    • Encourages religious inclusivity and understanding through storytelling.
    • Promotes conversations on faith, forgiveness, and second chances.
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

4-8

Length

24 pages

Text complexity

Discussion points

What do you think Jonah felt when he was inside the whale?
Why do you think Jonah tried to run away from his responsibilities?
How did Jonah change by the end of the story?
What would you have done if you were in Jonah's place?
Why is it important to follow through on our promises?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences of fear or reluctance.
Discuss the concept of responsibility and why it's important, using examples from the child’s own life.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings for the story to foster creative thinking.
Use the story as an opportunity to discuss the importance of forgiveness and second chances, both in giving and receiving.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Obeying Authority
Explanation: In 'Jonah and the Whale', Jonah tries to escape his responsibilities, leading him to face various hardships. His journey teaches about the consequences of disobeying rightful authority.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of listening to parents, teachers, or guardians, understanding that their guidance is for their own safety and benefit.
Example Lesson: Bravery in Facing Fears
Explanation: Jonah's eventual decision to face his fears and go to Nineveh demonstrates courage. It shows that facing fears is a part of growth and can lead to fulfilling one's duties.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to tackle their own fears whether it's starting a new school, standing up for themselves, or trying out new activities.
Example Lesson: Importance of Compassion and Forgiveness
Explanation: Jonah preaches to the Ninevites, and when they repent, God forgives them. This aspect of the story highlights the themes of mercy and the power of second chances.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be compassionate towards others and understand the power of forgiveness, both in receiving and granting it.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Accountability
Explanation: Jonah learns that he cannot run away from his responsibilities and that his actions, or lack thereof, have consequences.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of fulfilling obligations and being accountable for their actions in everyday activities or tasks.
Example Lesson: The Power of Prayer and Reflection
Explanation: Trapped inside the whale, Jonah prays and reflects on his actions, which eventually lead to his redemption and the completion of his mission.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to reflect on their actions and seek guidance through prayer or meditation during challenging times.

Books like Jonah and the Whale

Jonah and the Whale by Russell Punter, Andrew Mcdonough