Penguin Pandemonium - Christmas Crackers (Awesome Animals)
#2 of 9 in Amazing animals Series
on Goodreads (18)
What’s inside...
The fourth hilarious story about the irrepressible penguins of City Zoo, from award-winning author Jeanne Willis. An Awesome Animals title - meet the world's funniest animals! It's Christmas time at City Zoo! When Santa visits City Zoo, Rory and his penguin pals decide to celebrate. They build a snow penguin, decorate a tree and go on a magical sleigh ride. But they soon learn that the best thing about Christmas is sharing it with the penguins you love.
Discussion points
How do you think the penguins felt when they experienced their first Christmas?
What did the penguins learn about friendship and teamwork?
Why is celebrating traditions, like Christmas, important?
If you were one of the penguins, what would you have done differently during their adventure?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in a different holiday?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read with enthusiasm and different voice tones for each character to make the story come alive.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite parts of the book, fostering a deeper connection with its themes.
Relate the penguins' experiences to your child’s own life, such as teamwork in their activities or understanding new cultures.
Ask your child to draw a scene they liked from the book, and discuss their drawing to develop narrative skills and creativity.
Discuss the importance of holidays and traditions in your family, connecting the story to personal experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of cooperation and teamwork
Explanation: In the story, the penguins must work together to solve problems and overcome obstacles, demonstrating the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in school during group projects or in sports, learning how to collaboratively achieve common goals with peers.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity and acceptance
Explanation: Various species of animals come together in the story, teaching the penguins to appreciate differences and embrace diversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to be more inclusive and accepting of people from different backgrounds and cultures in their communities.
Example Lesson: Resilience in facing challenges
Explanation: Throughout the book, the penguins face numerous challenges but they show resilience and determination, characteristics that help them succeed.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persist and maintain a positive attitude in the face of difficulties whether in academics, learning new skills or handling personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Value of humor and joy
Explanation: The light-hearted and humorous nature of the book highlights the importance of joy and laughter in life.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to find happiness in small things and use humor as a way to cope with life’s challenges.