Monster Pet!
on Goodreads (34)
What’s inside...
Jackson has always wanted a pet that is big, wild, and exciting. He is disappointed when his dad brings home a hamster, which he names 'Monster' in hopes of transforming it into the outrageous animal he desires. Despite Jackson's efforts, Monster fails to meet his expectations, leading Jackson to lose interest in his pet. However, a surreal sequence of events teaches Jackson an important lesson about the responsibilities and rewards of owning a pet. Angela McAllister's story is complemented by Charlotte Middleton's illustrations, which together emphasize the message with a light touch.
Discussion points
What do you think makes a good friend? How did the monster and the boy show friendship in the book?
If you had a monster pet, what would you name it and why?
How did the boy feel when he first met the monster and how did his feelings change throughout the story?
What would you do if a monster came to live with you? How would you take care of it?
Why is it important to be kind and understanding to someone who is different from us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the conversation by asking your child to recount the story in their own words, encouraging them to articulate the plot and characters. Use the open-ended questions to delve deeper into the story’s themes and connect them to your child’s experiences. Share your own thoughts about the story to model thoughtful reflection. Emphasize empathy by discussing the characters’ feelings and actions, and relate these to real-life situations your child might encounter. Lastly, celebrate creative thinking by encouraging your child to imagine their own fantastical pet and how they would interact with it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Monster Pet!', the protagonist learns the importance of taking care of his pet monster, highlighting the daily responsibilities that come with pet ownership.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the commitment involved in caring for pets or even daily chores at home, fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving
Explanation: The story showcases the child figuring out how to keep the pet monster happy and healthy, which involves creative problem-solving and critical thinking.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and find solutions to their problems, whether in their academic tasks or in interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: ‘Monster Pet!’ demonstrates how forming a caring and respectful bond with someone different from oneself can be deeply rewarding.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate diversity and build meaningful relationships with others, regardless of differences.
Example Lesson: Coping with challenges
Explanation: The book portrays various challenges of having a unique pet, teaching kids to manage and adapt to unexpected situations.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to be resilient and adaptable when faced with new challenges or changes in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Compassion
Explanation: As the child character nurtures his monster pet, he shows compassion and kindness, which are crucial emotional skills.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to practice compassion in their interactions with others, fostering a more empathetic community.