Little Monkey
on Goodreads (218)
What’s inside...
It's hard being a little monkey in a big troop, in an even bigger jungle - and this little monkey has had enough of always missing out! She's off to climb to the top of the tallest tree in the jungle and she's going to do it all on her own! Except that there's someone following close behind. Someone with claws and stripes and rather sharp teeth. Little Monkey is a beautiful, funny and empowering picture book from renowned author/illustrator, Marta Altes. Little Monkey shows us that the world is a big, wild and wonderful place where anything is possible. And no matter how small you feel, just be bold, be fearless and curious and you can accomplish anything.
Discussion points
Why do you think Little Monkey was feeling lost at the beginning of the story?
What are some of the ways Little Monkey tried to reach the top of the tree?
How did Little Monkey feel after reaching the top of the tree and seeing the view?
Can you think of a time when you worked hard to accomplish something? How did you feel afterward?
What does this story teach us about trying new things and not giving up?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voice changes and gestures to bring the story's scenes to life, making the reading experience more dynamic and engaging.
Encourage children to relate the story to their own experiences, helping them connect with the character and understand the themes deeper.
Ask open-ended questions that prompt your child to think critically and reflect on the story’s message about perseverance and adventure.
Discuss the illustrations and ask your child what they notice, fostering visual literacy and attention to detail.
After reading, engage in a fun activity such as drawing a scene from the book or acting out their favorite part, to deepen connection with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: In 'Little Monkey,' the main character, a small monkey, faces many challenges due to her size but learns to overcome them through perseverance and creativity.
Real-World Application: Children learn that despite obstacles, they can achieve their goals with determination and innovative thinking, applicable in school projects or during sports.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Throughout the story, Little Monkey learns to embrace her unique qualities that make her different from other animals in the jungle.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to appreciate their own strengths and differences, fostering a positive self-image and encouraging diversity in friendships and activities.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Little Monkey encounters various problems on her journey and uses her intelligence and the help of new friends to find solutions.
Real-World Application: Children see the importance of using logic and teamwork to resolve daily challenges, whether it’s figuring out a puzzle or resolving a conflict with peers.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The protagonist's adventurous spirit leads her to explore new areas of the jungle, learning about her environment.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore the world around them, ask questions, and learn from their surroundings, which is beneficial in educational settings and personal growth.