My Worst Book Ever
What’s inside...
This is a humorous tale about the process of creating a children's picture book and the multitude of things that can go wrong along the way. Allan comes up with an idea for a book about a crocodile, but faces constant interruptions while trying to write. The manuscript is damaged by tea and snails, and when Bruce attempts to illustrate, he mistakenly draws a hippo instead of a crocodile. The publishers add to the chaos by requesting a dinosaur and experimenting with various fonts. As Allan and Bruce attempt to rectify the situation, further problems arise at the printing stage, where pages in different languages get mixed up with illustrations of hippos and dinosaurs. The story offers a lighthearted and amusing glimpse into the challenges of creating a picture book.
Discussion points
How do you think the author felt when things kept going wrong with his book?
What would you do if you were trying to create something and it didn't turn out as you hoped?
Can you think of a time when something didn't go as planned for you? How did you handle it?
Why do you think it's important to keep trying even when things get difficult?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a gentle tone to discuss setbacks and encourage your child to express their feelings about times they’ve faced challenges.
Relate personal stories or family anecdotes where perseverance led to a positive outcome to make the discussion more relatable.
Praise the effort rather than the outcome. Highlight how the author kept trying despite the challenges.
Discuss the value of patience and resilience, emphasizing that it's okay to feel frustrated when things don't work out immediately.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The story portrays the author's struggle as everything goes wrong in creating his book, emphasizing overcoming obstacles and persisting through setbacks.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying and not be disheartened by difficulties in tasks like school projects or learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Understanding that mistakes are part of learning
Explanation: As the author faces numerous errors during the book creation process, the narrative reflects the natural occurrence of mistakes in any creative endeavor.
Real-World Application: This can help children accept their own mistakes while doing homework or other activities, viewing them as learning opportunities rather than failures.
Example Lesson: The value of patience
Explanation: The progression of the story demonstrates the necessity of patience throughout the creation of a book, which spans various unforeseen delays and issues.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this to waiting their turn, handling delays in gratifications such as awaiting upcoming events or results.
Example Lesson: Creativity in problem-solving
Explanation: The author creatively navigates through the chaos of misprints, miscuts, and misunderstandings, showcasing innovative thinking.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box and find creative solutions in their daily challenges and play.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of uncontrollable circumstances
Explanation: The book humorously portrays mishaps that are beyond the author's control, teaching acceptance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children in coping with situations like changes in plans, weather ruining outings, or unexpected changes at home or school.