The Adventures of Keeno & Ernest: The Banana Tree
The Adventures Of Keeno And Ernest Series
What’s inside...
Keeno and Ernest are the best of friends living in the jungle. Keeno, a very mischievous monkey, finds a big, shiny new banana tree. Unfortunately, it is on the other side of the river and his parents have told him never to cross without an adult. Ernest, a clever young elephant, reminds him of this, but Keeno decides to go anyway. Follow the adventure as Keeno finds himself in great danger and relies on Ernest to rescue him. In the end, Keeno learns two very valuable lessons about friendship and family rules.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-12
Length
26 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Keeno
Ernest
Discussion points
What do you think Keeno and Ernest learned from their adventure with the banana tree?
How did Keeno and Ernest work together to solve their problem? Can teamwork help us in real life too?
What would you have done if you were in Keeno's place when they found the banana tree?
How do you think the animals in the story felt during the adventure? Why do you think feelings are important in stories?
If you could ask Keeno or Ernest one question about their adventure, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story. Listen actively and validate their opinions to foster a deeper understanding. Use the questions to guide a conversation that helps connect the story's themes to your child’s everyday experiences. This not only enhances comprehension but also makes reading a shared, joyous activity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Keeno and Ernest work together to solve the problem of how to reach the bananas at the top of the tree. Their collaboration highlights how teamwork can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in group activities at school or during play, learning to cooperate with peers to achieve a common goal.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: Keeno initially makes a selfish decision that leads to negative consequences for the banana tree. This teaches the importance of considering the repercussions of one's actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children think before acting and encourages them to consider how their actions might affect others and their surroundings.
Example Lesson: The value of honesty
Explanation: After causing harm to the banana tree, Keeno confesses to his actions. His honesty is a pivotal part of resolving the issue and restoring his friendship with Ernest.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of being honest, especially when they have made mistakes, and see how honesty can mend relationships and situations.
Example Lesson: Respecting nature
Explanation: The story shows the consequences of not caring for the environment properly and encourages a respectful attitude towards nature.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to take care of plants and animals in their environment, understanding that they are vital parts of the ecosystem.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, Keeno and Ernest encounter various challenges that they must solve, demonstrating effective problem-solving strategies.
Real-World Application: Children can use similar strategies when facing difficulties, learning to think critically and creatively to find solutions.