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Madame Autoritaire (Bonhomme)

#1 in Little Miss Books Series

4.03
on Goodreads (2,459)

What’s inside...

Madame Autoritaire (Bonhomme) is a children's book by Roger Hargreaves that depicts the journey of Madame Autoritaire, a controlling character, as she learns the importance of kindness and consideration. The story is brought to life through vibrant illustrations and straightforward language, highlighting the significance of empathy and understanding in relationships. The narrative takes a turn when Little Miss Bossy, who constantly instructs everyone, is transformed by a spell from Wilfred the Wizard.
In series
Series reading

Non-Sequential

Age

3-7

Length

34 pages

Text complexity

Character compass

Madame Autoritaire
Mr Lazy
Mr Nosey
Mr Noisy
Mr Happy
Little Miss Bossy

Discussion points

How did Madame Autoritaire's behavior affect others around her? Can you think of a time when someone was bossy with you? How did that make you feel?
What do you think Madame Autoritaire could have done differently to make her friends feel better?
Why is it important to listen to others and not always be in charge?
Do you think it's possible to be a leader without being bossy? Can you give an example?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in Madame Autoritaire's shoes by asking how they would feel if they were in similar situations.
Discuss the value of teamwork and cooperation, and how being considerate of others' feelings can lead to better relationships.
Highlight moments in the story where positive communication could have changed outcomes, and relate them to real-life scenarios.
Reinforce the idea that everyone makes mistakes, just like Madame Autoritaire, but it's important to learn and grow from them.

Key lessons

Example Lesson: Respect for Authority
Explanation: The story highlights the importance of listening to and respecting figures of authority, such as teachers and parents, through the interactions of the children with Madame Autoritaire.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by following rules at school and at home, showing politeness and listening attentively when being instructed by adults.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Madame Autoritaire teaches children about taking responsibility for their actions, emphasizing the consequences of their decisions in the storyline.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child's life by encouraging them to own up to their mistakes, complete their homework, and take care of their belongings.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Through various scenarios in the book, children learn to understand and share the feelings of others, guided by Madame Autoritaire's lessons on empathy.
Real-World Application: Children can practice empathy by recognizing emotions in others, offering to help friends in distress, and learning to share with their peers.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: The book portrays school as a positive environment where children can learn and grow, with Madame Autoritaire underscoring the value of education.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate their educational opportunities, actively participate in class, and develop a lifelong love for learning.

Madame Autoritaire (Bonhomme) by Roger Hargreaves