Meerkat Mail
#1 in Sunny the Meerkat Series
on Goodreads (1,191)
What’s inside...
Sunny the meerkat lives with his enormous family in the Kalahari desert. They are all very close... so close, in fact, that one day Sunny decides he's had enough and packs his bags. He's off to visit his mongoose cousins. But from the watery world of the Marsh Mongoose to the nocturnal lifestyle of the Malagasy Mongoose, Sunny just doesn't fit in. And who's that shadowy figure who seems to be following him around? Another brilliant picture book from the creator of the incredible WOLVES, winner of the 2005 Kate Greenaway Medal.
Discussion points
How do you think Sunny the meerkat felt when he visited each of his relatives? What clues in the pictures or words helped you understand his feelings?
What do you think Sunny learned about home during his journey?
Why do you think Sunny decided to return home in the end?
How did the different homes of Sunny’s relatives compare to each other? Which one would you like to visit?
What does this story teach us about family and the importance of where we live?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Sunny’s journey, relating it to any experiences of visiting relatives or friends.
Discuss the concept of home with your child—ask them what makes their home special and how it makes them feel secure, much like Sunny.
Use the illustrations in the book to engage your child. Point to the pictures of different homes and family members, and ask your child to describe what they see and how it might relate to the story’s message.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of their ideal home or to write a short letter to a family member, similar to how Sunny sent postcards to his family.
Use the map in the book to help your child understand geography and the idea of distance between Sunny’s home and his relatives’ homes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: In 'Meerkat Mail,' the protagonist Sunny the meerkat travels to various places, searching for a perfect home but eventually realizes that he feels happiest and safest with his own family.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate their family members and understand the significance of familial support and love in their lives.
Example Lesson: Exploration and Curiosity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Sunny exhibits curiosity and a sense of adventure by visiting different relatives and exploring new environments.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore new activities and learn about diverse cultures and places, fostering a sense of curiosity and open-mindedness.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Sunny's experiences in different habitats teach him how to adapt to various situations, highlighting the importance of being flexible and resilient.
Real-World Application: This lesson can guide children to be adaptable in changing circumstances, whether it's adjusting to a new school, meeting new people, or trying different activities.
Example Lesson: Self-Discovery
Explanation: As Sunny visits various places, he learns more about himself and what truly matters to him, leading to his return home where he feels he belongs.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of self-exploration and understanding personal preferences and values through trying new experiences.