The Daddy Mountain
What’s inside...
A piggy back ride turns into a climbing adventure as a little redheaded girl explains how she carefully climbs from her father's legs, up his back, and onto his shoulders in order to reach the very peak by sitting atop Mount Dad's head. Before your very eyes, this little redhead is about to do something extremely daring and scary. She documents each step as she takes her Daddy, makes him stand still, balances on his shoe, wraps her arms around his leg, and starts her perilous ascent to the summit. Thrills, chills, and laughter are guaranteed. JULES FEIFFER, a Pulitzer Prize-winning artist, adds his unique touch to this adventurous tale.
Age
1-3
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Little Girl
Daddy
Discussion points
How did the girl feel as she climbed 'The Daddy Mountain'? Can you describe times when you've felt similar?
Why do you think the girl was excited to reach the top? What do you feel excited about achieving?
What role does the Daddy play in this story? How does that compare to our family?
What are some ways the girl showed bravery? Can you think of a time when you were brave?
How do you think the girl and her Daddy felt at the end of the book? Why is spending time together important?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the book by relating to their own experiences of tackling new challenges or working with family members.
Use the illustrations in the book to guide your conversation, asking your child to interpret the scenes and describe what they think is happening.
Focus on the emotional journey of the protagonist, prompting your child to consider how they handle similar emotions during their own activities.
Discuss the supportive relationship between the girl and her Daddy, encouraging your child to talk about important relationships in their life.
After reading, engage in a fun activity like building a ‘mountain’ out of pillows or cushions and taking turns climbing, to bring the book's themes to life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: In 'The Daddy Mountain,' the child demonstrates determination and persistence in climbing up her father, showcasing the essence of tackling challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by persistently working towards their goals, whether in school projects or learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the child navigates different obstacles as she climbs, portraying the importance of strategic thinking and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and solve problems they encounter in their daily activities and play.
Example Lesson: Physical Activity
Explanation: The physical act of climbing in the story highlights the enjoyment and benefits of engaging in physical activities.
Real-World Application: It reinforces the value of active play, which is crucial for physical health and development.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The story revolves around a playful and loving interaction between a father and his child, emphasizing the importance of family bonding.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of spending quality time with family members, strengthening relationships and emotional security.
Example Lesson: Confidence Building
Explanation: Successfully reaching the top gives the child a sense of accomplishment, boosting her self-confidence.
Real-World Application: This teaches children that facing challenges can lead to personal growth and enhance their self-esteem in real-life situations.