Monster School
What’s inside...
In 'Monster School,' an entertaining collection of poems by Kate Coombs and illustrated by Lee Gatlin, the death bell signals the start of class in a school filled with kindergartner goblins and drooling zombies. This lively assortment presents a range of monster characters, each with distinctive traits that mirror the personalities of real children, despite their monstrous forms.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes each monster special in their own way?
How did the characters handle challenges in the story? Can you think of a time you faced a challenge and overcame it?
What would you do if you attended a school like Monster School? Which classes would you be excited to take?
If you could create your own monster, what unique traits or abilities would it have?
What lessons did you learn from the story? How can you apply them in your daily life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Ask your child to describe their favorite monster from the book and why it appealed to them, which can help you understand their interests and thought process.
Discuss the importance of accepting and celebrating differences, as shown through the variety of monsters in the school.
Encourage your child to draw or write about their own imaginary monster. This can help them connect creatively with the book's theme and enhance their understanding.
Relate the challenges faced by the characters to real-life situations your child may encounter, providing them with practical insights on handling difficulties.
Praise your child's responses and insights during the discussion to boost their confidence and encourage active participation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Uniqueness
Explanation: In 'Monster School,' students of various monster types come together, each showcasing their unique skills and qualities. This diversity and acceptance are central themes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate differences among their peers, promoting inclusivity and understanding in school and social situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: The book portrays monsters engaging in learning activities like spelling and math, emphasizing that education is crucial, no matter who or what you are.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to take their schooling seriously and understand that learning is valuable for everyone.
Example Lesson: Building Friendships
Explanation: Despite their differences, the monster students work together and support each other, demonstrating the importance of friendship.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by developing supportive relationships with classmates, helping each other overcome challenges and succeed academically and socially.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout 'Monster School,' characters encounter various challenges that they must solve, such as working on group projects or managing personal fears.
Real-World Application: Kids learn that problem-solving is a vital skill, both in academics and in life, teaching them to navigate obstacles creatively and confidently.