The Meanest Doll in the World
#2 of 4 in The Doll People Series
on Goodreads (7,091)
What’s inside...
This wholesome, award-winning classic has sold over 1 million copies and is crafted by bestselling authors and a Caldecott-winning artist. It narrates the journey of Annabelle Doll and Tiffany Funcraft, two dolls who embark on an adventure when they hitch a ride in Kate's backpack to school. Their attempt to return home mistakenly lands them in another house, leading to deeper trouble with new doll friends and an encounter with Mean Mimi, the wickedest doll who aims to rule or destroy all of Dollkind. This story sparks imagination and wonder, encouraging readers to seek the next book in the series, The Runaway Dolls.
Discussion points
How did the actions of the Meanest Doll make you feel, and why do you think she acted that way?
What would you do if you met someone like the Meanest Doll in your own life?
How did the other dolls respond to the Meanest Doll's behavior, and what does that teach us about handling difficult situations?
What does friendship mean in this story, and how do the characters show or learn about true friendship?
If you could give the Meanest Doll some advice, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening as your child expresses their thoughts about the book’s characters; it helps them delve deeper into understanding different behaviors and emotions.
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences, which helps in connecting the book’s themes to real-life scenarios.
Ask follow-up questions that explore the themes of the book, like friendship and handling conflict, to reinforce lessons learned from the story.
Promote a discussion not just about the plot, but also about the moral lessons, helping your child to develop critical thinking about right and wrong.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The interactions between the dolls in 'The Meanest Doll in the World' highlight the importance of understanding others' feelings and perspectives, especially when dealing with Mean Mimi, who often misunderstands and clashes with others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by considering other people's feelings before reacting in their day-to-day interactions, encouraging more harmonious relationships with their peers.
Example Lesson: Courage to confront challenges
Explanation: Annabelle and Tiffany, the main characters, often face difficult and scary situations, but they show bravery and work together to solve problems, showing the value of facing fears head-on.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to not shy away from difficulties, whether in school or in social settings, and to understand that it is okay to ask for help when needed.
Example Lesson: Importance of honesty
Explanation: Throughout the narrative, the protagonists learn that lies can complicate life and hurt others, underlining the importance of being truthful.
Real-World Application: In everyday life, this teaches children the virtues of honesty with family and friends, promoting trust and integrity in their relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship
Explanation: Despite their differences and the challenges they face, Annabelle and Tiffany demonstrate that true friendship involves support, forgiveness, and loyalty.
Real-World Application: This lesson can guide children to cultivate and cherish genuine friendships, understand the give-and-take nature of relationships, and support their friends in times of need.
Example Lesson: Resolving conflicts
Explanation: The book shows characters resolving their disputes through communication and compromise, providing a model for constructive conflict resolution.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use their words to express their feelings and to listen to others to find a middle ground, essential skills for managing disagreements in school and at play.