The Pout-Pout Fish and the Worry-Worry Whale
#2 of 12 in A Pout-Pout Fish Adventure Series
What’s inside...
In the next installment of the New York Times –bestselling Pout-Pout Fish series, Mr. Fish helps his friend Willa Whale overcome her social anxiety. Willa is full of worries about attending a party, wondering if it will be too loud, if she'll find someone to talk to, or if she'll get lost in the crowd. With some suggestions from Mr. Fish, Willa learns to navigate her worries and discovers that there are ways to manage the anxiety that swims inside her. Together, Mr. Fish and Willa explore the world of worry and learn valuable lessons along the way.
Character compass
Mr. Fish
The Worry-Worry Whale
Discussion points
How do you think the Pout-Pout Fish felt when he met the Worry-Worry Whale?
What are some ways the Pout-Pout Fish could help the Worry-Worry Whale feel better?
Can you think of a time when you felt worried like the Worry-Worry Whale? What helped you feel better?
Why is it important to help our friends when they're feeling worried or scared?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions of the characters, enhancing the child's understanding of the story.
Discuss personal connections to the story by sharing a similar experience you had when you felt worried and how you overcame it.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or solutions to how the characters managed their worries in the book.
Praise empathetic responses and validate the child's feelings, linking them to the emotions experienced by the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Managing emotions
Explanation: The story showcases how the Pout-Pout Fish learns to navigate his fears and anxieties with the help of the Worry-Worry Whale, teaching emotional resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by acknowledging their feelings of fear and anxiety and seeking support from friends or family to cope with and overcome these emotions.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the bond between Pout-Pout Fish and Worry-Worry Whale highlights the importance of support and companionship in overcoming challenges.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to value and nurture their friendships, understanding that friends can be a source of strength during difficult times.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: The characters work together to find solutions to the problems they face in the story, illustrating effective teamwork and collaborative problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to collaborate with others to resolve conflicts or challenges they encounter in school or play.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The Worry-Worry Whale shows empathy towards Pout-Pout Fish’s worries, teaching readers about the importance of being considerate of others' feelings.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more empathetic and supportive by recognizing emotions in others and providing comfort or help when needed.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: As the story progresses, Pout-Pout Fish demonstrates courage by confronting his worries, which can inspire bravery in young readers.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that facing fears, though intimidating, is a part of growing up and can lead to personal growth and confidence.