Monkey and Elephant's Worst Fight Ever!
on Goodreads (87)
What’s inside...
Monkey thought Elephant was his best friend. He was even bringing him some surprise cupcakes-and found a party going on that he wasn't invited to! Elephant thought Monkey was his best friend. He was even planning a surprise wrestling party for him-but then Monkey put all his favorite toys in the freezer! From there the war of revenge is on, and life on their small island is becoming dangerous! Until the townsfolk find a creative way to make Monkey and Elephant talk out their problems (cement shoes, a boat, and a chisel are involved . . .). Happily, Monkey and Elephant realize their fight was based on a misundersanding. But if only they had talked sooner, innocent teddies wouldn't need defrosting. This is a laugh-out-loud comedy of a book with the helpful message that 'using your words' is infinitely better than, say, painting a mean face on their butt.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Monkey and Elephant feel during their fight? What could they have done differently?
Why is it important to listen to a friend’s feelings?
What did Monkey and Elephant learn at the end of the story?
Have you ever had a disagreement with a friend? How did you resolve it?
What are some ways we can show kindness and understanding to our friends?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child to think about a time they had a misunderstanding with a friend and how they felt.
Pause at key moments in the story to discuss the characters' emotions and actions, relating them to real-life scenarios your child might face.
After reading, role-play different ways Monkey and Elephant could have resolved their fight, encouraging empathy and problem-solving skills.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of a happy ending for Monkey and Elephant, reinforcing the theme of reconciliation.
End the discussion by emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and asking your child to reflect on how they can apply the lesson in their own friendships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Conflict Resolution
Explanation: The story illustrates how Monkey and Elephant face a significant disagreement and work through their emotions to resolve their conflict.
Real-World Application: Children learn how to handle disputes with friends or siblings calmly and constructively.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the characters share their feelings and viewpoints, it teaches children the importance of considering others' perspectives during disagreements.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to listen and understand where others are coming from, helping them in social interactions at school or home.
Example Lesson: The Value of Apology
Explanation: The characters learn that saying sorry and accepting responsibility can help mend friendships.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of apologizing when they have made a mistake, fostering a culture of accountability and kindness.
Example Lesson: Maintaining Friendships
Explanation: Despite their worst fight ever, Monkey and Elephant show that friendship can endure challenges if both parties are willing to work through issues.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the importance of preserving friendships by overcoming obstacles through communication and mutual respect.