The Chocolate Monster (A Ruby Roo Story Book 2)
#2 of 4 in A Ruby Roo story Series
What’s inside...
Watch out! There's a chocolate monster on the loose! This utterly delightful chocolatey story is the latest picture book sensation from Pip Jones - the funniest voice in young fiction today - and rising star illustrator, Laura Hughes. BREAKING NEWS: a chocolate monster is on the loose! Keep watch, and close all cupboard doors. No chocolate bar's secure. If left at large, The Chunk will turn up at YOUR house, for sure. And worse still, this fiend will make sure you take the blame! Keep your eyes peeled and join in the hunt for The Chunk in this brilliant new picture book charmingly illustrated by rising star Laura Hughes. Reviews describe it as a 'bubbly picture book on a chocolatey theme' and a 'delectable rhyming treat.'
Character compass
Ruby Roo
Discussion points
How did Ruby Roo feel when she thought the Chocolate Monster was around, and what would you have done in her place?
What are some ways Ruby Roo tried to solve her problem? Why do you think she chose those methods?
Can you think of a time when you thought something scary was happening but it turned out to be something else? What was it?
Why is it important to understand the whole situation before making a decision?
How did the story change your thoughts about sharing and understanding others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use animated voices for different characters to make the reading session more enjoyable and help distinguish between the characters.
After reading a scene, pause and ask your child what they think might happen next to encourage predictive thinking.
Connect the story's themes to real-life situations in your child's life to make the lessons more relatable.
Encourage your child to draw or act out their favorite part of the book. This helps in understanding the story deeply and retain its moral.
Discuss the actions of the characters and ask your child how different choices might have led to different outcomes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Honesty
Explanation: In the story, Ruby Roo learns the consequences of blaming the 'Chocolate Monster' for her actions, highlighting the importance of honesty.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to tell the truth and take responsibility for their actions, establishing trust with their peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Creative Problem Solving
Explanation: The plot revolves around Ruby Roo's imaginative attempts to deal with the 'Chocolate Monster.' It demonstrates the value of thinking creatively to solve problems.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box and apply innovative solutions to challenges they face in daily life.
Example Lesson: Understanding Consequences
Explanation: Ruby Roo faces repercussions for her actions and learns that every action has a consequence, intended or not.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to consider the potential outcomes of their actions before they act, fostering a sense of responsibility.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Perspective Taking
Explanation: As Ruby Roo imagines the 'Chocolate Monster,' she learns to see situations from different viewpoints, promoting empathy.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to understand others’ emotions and perspectives, aiding their social interactions and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Communication
Explanation: The story illustrates how open communication within the family can resolve misunderstandings.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of discussing issues openly and honestly with family members to maintain harmony at home.