Mr. Peek and the Misunderstanding at the Zoo
on Goodreads (159)
What’s inside...
Poor old Mr. Peek the zookeeper has a bad start to his day. Will he notice what has gone wrong, or will he spread confusion throughout the zoo? When Mr. Peek puts on his son’s jacket by mistake, he starts to air all his insecurities as he goes on his daily rounds at the zoo. But unbeknownst to Mr. Peek, all the animals think he is talking about them! How will the unfortunate misunderstanding be cleared up? This debut picture book from a stunning talent—winner of a Bologna Ragazzi Award—combines hilarious, distinctive illustrations with a fantastic story about how easily insecurities can spread.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-5
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Mr. Peek thought the animals were unhappy? How did his misunderstandings change his view of the zoo?
What emotions did Mr. Peek and the animals experience in the story? Have you ever felt like that?
How did the animals react to Mr. Peek’s mistakes, and what does that teach us about communication?
Can you think of a time when you misunderstood someone like Mr. Peek did? What did you do to solve the misunderstanding?
What did Mr. Peek learn at the end of the story? How can we apply this lesson in our daily lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts by relating characters' feelings to their own experiences. This personal connection fosters deeper empathy.
Prompt discussions about misunderstandings and resolutions with real-life examples, helping children understand the significance of clear communication.
Ask your child how they might have acted differently if they were Mr. Peek, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving discussions.
Highlight the importance of apologizing and correcting mistakes, as demonstrated by Mr. Peek, to instill values of responsibility and humility.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Mr. Peek makes several mistakes throughout the day, thinking he is unnoticed, but soon realizes his actions affect those around him.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that their actions have consequences and they should think before acting, which is vital in social interactions and decision-making.
Example Lesson: Importance of Communication
Explanation: Misunderstandings in the story arise due to Mr. Peek's assumptions and lack of communication with other characters.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of clear communication and asking questions when in doubt, reducing misunderstandings in real life.
Example Lesson: Self-Awareness and Reflection
Explanation: Mr. Peek reflects on his behavior throughout his day at the zoo and recognizes his mistakes.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to reflect on their own actions and understand how self-awareness can lead to personal growth and better interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Consideration for Others
Explanation: By the end of the book, Mr. Peek learns to consider the feelings and perspectives of the zoo animals and his son.
Real-World Application: This highlights to children the importance of empathy and considering how their actions affect the emotions and lives of others.
Example Lesson: Resolving Misunderstandings
Explanation: The story shows how misunderstandings are resolved when Mr. Peek discusses his actions and thoughts with others.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of addressing and resolving conflicts through dialogue, important for nurturing healthy relationships.