The Grunts in Trouble
#1 of 4 in The Grunts Series
What’s inside...
The first in the hilarious series from Roald Dahl Funny Prize winning author Philip Ardagh and illustrator of The Gruffalo, Axel Scheffler. Mr and Mrs Grunt, who are neither clean nor clever, live with their adopted - in fact, abducted - son, Sunny, in a donkey-drawn caravan somewhere or other at some time that is a bit like now but not exactly now. Sunny is an odd-looking boy, what with his left ear being higher than his right ear and that kind of sticky-up hair which NEVER goes flat, even if you massage glue into it and then jump on it. Together the unusual family find themselves in frankly improbable but very funny adventures involving bendy railings, double-barrelled shotguns, full-fat yoghurt and, always, a beard of bees.
Discussion points
What do you think about the Grunts' lifestyle and choices? How would you handle the situations they faced?
Which character in the book did you find most interesting or funny, and why?
What lessons do you think the Grunts learned throughout their adventures?
How do the characters in the story show teamwork or lack of it? Can you give an example?
If you could change one thing in the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a light and humorous tone to reflect the quirky nature of the book, making the discussion fun and lively.
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them how they would solve problems differently than the characters in the book.
Discuss the moral and ethical choices characters make, guiding your child to consider the consequences of actions in a gentle manner.
Relate scenarios in the book to real-life situations to help your child draw parallels and learn from the characters' experiences.
Praise your child for unique ideas or insights they share, fostering an environment where their thoughts and opinions are valued.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The characters in 'The Grunts in Trouble' consistently encounter and overcome various difficult situations, showcasing adaptability and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face challenges in their own lives with a positive attitude, understanding that obstacles are a part of life and can be tackled effectively.
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: The Grunts often have to work together to solve problems, demonstrating how collaboration can lead to success.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the value of cooperating with others, whether in school projects, sports, or family activities, emphasizing that teamwork can achieve greater results than working alone.
Example Lesson: Creativity and thinking outside the box
Explanation: The characters in the book often use unconventional methods to solve problems, highlighting the benefits of creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think creatively in their problem-solving, enabling them to come up with unique solutions in various aspects of their lives.
Example Lesson: Adaptability to change
Explanation: Throughout the story, the Grunts face numerous changes and new environments which they adapt to with humor and ingenuity.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of being flexible and adapting to new situations, whether it's moving to a new school, or trying out different extracurricular activities.