My First Gruffalo: The Gruffalo Puppet Book
The Gruffalo Series
What’s inside...
This interactive puppet book invites young readers to delve into the world of the Gruffalo by engaging with a Gruffalo hand puppet while reading the story. Based on the popular picture book 'The Gruffalo' by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, the book encourages interaction as children use the puppet to scare away other characters like Fox, Owl, and Snake. The hands-on experience is further enhanced as kids are prompted to touch and explore different features of the Gruffalo, like scratching its warty nose and tickling its prickles. Aimed at toddlers and young children, the book offers a playful introduction to the characters of the deep dark wood through both storytelling and physical engagement with the puppet.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-5
Length
10 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the Gruffalo looks like? Can you describe him using your own words?
How do you think the mouse felt when he met the Gruffalo? Have you ever felt that way?
What would you do if you met a creature like the Gruffalo in the woods?
Why do you think the mouse was able to trick the Gruffalo?
Can you think of a different ending for the story? What would happen next?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive voice and gestures to mimic the characters while reading, making the story come alive for your child.
Encourage your child to use the puppet themselves as you read along, letting them explore their storytelling skills.
Discuss the characteristics of the Gruffalo and the mouse, identifying their differences and similarities to real-life animals.
After reading, engage in a creative activity, such as drawing their version of the Gruffalo or writing a mini-story about another adventure.
Connect the story’s themes to personal experiences, asking your child about times they've encountered something scary and how they dealt with it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Bravery and Problem-Solving
Explanation: The protagonist mouse uses cleverness and bravery to navigate challenges posed by other forest creatures.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively to solve problems and to face challenges with courage.
Example Lesson: Importance of Cunning and Wit
Explanation: The mouse avoids danger by outsmarting bigger animals, showing that brains can prevail over brawn.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of using intellect and wit in difficult situations rather than relying solely on physical strength.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Trust
Explanation: Through the mouse's interactions, the story explores themes of trust and friendship.
Real-World Application: Highlights to children the importance of building trust and how true friends should support one another.