The Bad Guys
#1 of 20 in The Bad Guys Series
on Goodreads (18,266)
What’s inside...
Mr. Wolf, Mr. Piranha, Mr. Snake, and Mr. Shark, the main characters, are in fact terrifying animals. Surprisingly, these beasts desire to be heroes, and they're determined to prove it. The hilarious first installment in New York Times bestselling author Aaron Blabey's The Bad Guys series. They sound like bad guys, they look like bad guys, and they even smell like bad guys. But Mr. Wolf, Mr. Piranha, Mr. Snake, and Mr. Shark are about to change all of that. Mr. Wolf has a daring plan for the Bad Guys' first good mission. They are going to break two hundred dogs out of the Maximum Security City Dog Pound. Will Operation Dog Pound go smoothly? Will the Bad Guys become the Good Guys? And will Mr. Snake please stop swallowing Mr. Piranha? Turtleback binding is a highly durable alternative to a hardcover or paperback book. The comprehensive cover reinforcement process will drastically combat wear and tear, keeping your favorite books in great condition for years to come! Turtleback books are ideal for any reader, or for use in schools or libraries.
Character compass
Mr Shark
Mr Piranha
Mr Snake
Mr Wolf
Discussion points
What do you think makes someone a 'bad guy'? Can a 'bad guy' do good things?
How did the characters in the book work together to solve problems? What can we learn from that?
What was your favorite part of the story, and why?
How did your feelings about the characters change from the beginning of the book to the end?
If you could give the characters one piece of advice, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by expressing your own thoughts about the book’s themes, encouraging your child to share their views.
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them how they might handle similar situations as the characters in the book.
Help your child connect the story to their own experiences by discussing similar dilemmas they have faced and how they resolved them.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to think deeper by asking follow-up questions based on their responses.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The characters in 'The Bad Guys' work together to change their reputations and do good deeds, demonstrating the power of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities and understanding the importance of working together towards a common goal, be it in sports, school projects, or family tasks.
Example Lesson: Redemption and Change
Explanation: The story emphasizes that everyone, even those labeled as 'bad', has the capacity for change and doing good.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of second chances and that people can change for the better. It encourages an open-minded approach to others around them.
Example Lesson: Courage to defy stereotypes
Explanation: The protagonists defy the stereotypes associated with being 'bad guys', showing bravery in their quest to be heroes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to challenge stereotypes and stand up for what they believe is right, promoting bravery and self-confidence in their personal convictions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As the characters attempt to be good, they learn to understand and empathize with others, realizing the impact of their actions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to consider others' feelings and perspectives, fostering a sense of empathy and compassion in their interactions.