The Monster Diner (1.0 Very First Reading)
Usborne Very First Reading Series
on Goodreads (78)
What’s inside...
A hilarious story to inspire beginner readers, based on the principles of synthetic phonics and supports the 'Letters and Sounds' programme used in UK primary schools. This is the thirteenth title in the 'Usborne Very First Reading' series, designed for younger children to introduce them to reading together with their parents. Parents and children take turns to read from the page, with text clearly marked for who should be reading. As the books progress, the adults read less and the child reads more. The book includes fun puzzles to test understanding and provide opportunities for discussion and further reading practice, along with guidance notes for the parents and beautiful illustrations to motivate beginner readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the monsters in the diner like to eat the most?
Why do you think the monster made that choice?
How would you feel if you visited a diner run by monsters?
Can you imagine a funny dish that a monster might serve?
If you could create a monster, what would it look like and what would its favorite food be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a curious and playful tone when discussing the book’s themes to make the conversation more engaging.
Encourage your child to use their imagination and think creatively about the characters and setting.
Affirm their responses to show that their thoughts and ideas are valued, which boosts their confidence in expressing themselves.
Connect the story to real-life experiences, like visiting a diner, to make the narrative more relatable and interesting.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's answers to deepen the conversation and encourage more detailed thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Sharing
Explanation: In 'The Monster Diner', the monsters share various dishes with each other, demonstrating a spirit of cooperation and generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by sharing their snacks or toys with friends, fostering a sense of communal support and kindness.
Example Lesson: Following Instructions
Explanation: The story showcases monsters carefully following a recipe, highlighting the value of following steps to achieve a desired outcome.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of following directions at school, during activities, or when helping out at home.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The monsters come up with creative dishes, illustrating how imagination can make everyday tasks more enjoyable and fruitful.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to use their creativity in solving problems or in their playtime, enhancing their cognitive and social skills.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The monsters in the diner work together to prepare meals, showing the benefits of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in group projects or team sports, where cooperation is key to success.
Example Lesson: Trying New Things
Explanation: The story’s characters try new and unusual food combinations, promoting an open-minded approach to new experiences.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open to trying new foods, activities, or making new friends, aiding their adaptability and growth.