Junie B Jones Has a Monster Under Her Bed
#8 of 28 in Junie B. Jones Series
What’s inside...
Barbara Park’s New York Times bestselling chapter book series, Junie B. Jones, is a classroom favorite and has been keeping kids laughing—and reading—for more than twenty years. Over 60 million copies in print and now with a bright new look for a new generation! Meet the World’s Funniest Kindergartner—Junie B. Jones! Junie B. knows there’s no such thing as monsters. Mother and Daddy even said so. But then why is there monster drool on Junie B.’s pillow? Oh, no! What if Paulie Allen Puffer is right—what if she really does have a monster under her bed? If Junie B. goes to sleep, the monster might see her feet hanging down. And he might think her piggy toes are yummy little wiener sausages! USA Today: “Junie B. is the darling of the young-reader set.” Publishers Weekly: “Park convinces beginning readers that Junie B.—and reading—are lots of fun.” Kirkus Reviews: “Junie’s swarms of young fans will continue to delight in her unique take on the world. . . . A hilarious, first-rate read-aloud.” Time: “Junie B. Jones is a feisty six-year-old with an endearing penchant for honesty.”
Character compass
Junie B. Jones
Mrs Jones
Discussion points
What do you think Junie B. felt when she thought there was a monster under her bed? Have you ever felt the same way?
How did Junie B. try to solve her problem? What would you have done differently if you were in her shoes?
Why do you think the author chose a monster under the bed to tell this story? What does the monster represent?
How did Junie B.'s perspective about the monster change by the end of the book? What helped her change her mind?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading session more lively and engaging for your child.
Pause after exciting moments in the story to ask your child to predict what might happen next. This encourages critical thinking and engagement with the plot.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw their version of the monster under the bed or any other favorite scene. Discuss their drawing to deepen their comprehension and connection to the story.
Relate the story to your child's real-life experiences, such as times they've been scared or misunderstood a situation, to help them connect with Junie B.'s emotions and reactions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Facing fears
Explanation: Junie B. confronts her fear of the monster under her bed, showcasing bravery and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by tackling their own fears, whether it’s trying something new or facing nighttime fears, reinforcing resilience and confidence.
Example Lesson: Imagination and creativity
Explanation: Junie B.’s vivid imaginings about the monster demonstrate the power and depth of a child's creativity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination in play or in solving problems, enhancing cognitive flexibility and artistic expression.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through interactions with her friends and family, Junie B. learns to understand different perspectives.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to consider how others feel and to develop stronger relationships through empathy.
Example Lesson: Communication
Explanation: Junie B. learns the importance of expressing her fears and talking about her problems.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the value of discussing their concerns with trusted adults or peers, promoting emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills.