Thunder-Boomer!
What’s inside...
A summer storm brings relief from the heat—and a surprise—to a farm family. It's a hot day on the farm, and a little girl, her brother, and their mother are trying to cool off by the pond. Suddenly, dark clouds roll in. A thunder-boomer is on the way! The storm brings pounding rain and hail—and an unexpected visitor: a soggy wet stray kitten. Colorful descriptions of the storm are accompanied by lots of playful sound effects, making this free-verse poem perfect for reading aloud. Charming watercolor illustrations capture all the drama, humor, and tenderness of the text.
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Girl (Narrator)
Mother
Father
Discussion points
What do you think the family felt when they saw the storm coming in 'Thunder-Boomer!'?
How did the storm change the way the farm looked? What details do you remember about the changes?
Why do you think the kitten was important in the story? What does it symbolize?
How do the sounds and images of the storm make you feel as you read the book?
What would you do if you were in the story during the thunderstorm?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe the storm using their own words and feelings, linking it to any personal experiences with weather.
Ask your child to draw a scene from the book, focusing on the storm's impact on the farm, to deepen their connection with the visual elements of the story.
Discuss the concept of fear and safety by exploring how the family in the story reacts to the thunderstorm and how they comfort each other.
Highlight the kitten’s role in the book and discuss themes of rescue and care. Ask your child how they would care for a lost animal.
Use sound effects or music to mimic the sounds described in the book during the storm to make the reading experience more vivid and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing New Experiences
Explanation: In 'Thunder-Boomer!', the characters encounter a thunderstorm, which serves as a new and initially intimidating experience. Through the story, children see the characters' reactions and eventual enjoyment of the rain.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach unfamiliar situations with curiosity rather than fear, helping them adapt to new environments or changes in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Family Bonding
Explanation: The family in the book comes together during the storm, showing how shared experiences can strengthen familial ties. The characters support and comfort each other, enhancing the sense of family unity.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to value and seek comfort in family relationships during times of uncertainty or discomfort.
Example Lesson: Value of Patience
Explanation: As the storm progresses, the characters learn to wait it out patiently, demonstrating that some situations require waiting for resolution.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of patience in everyday life, such as waiting their turn or dealing with delays.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Nature
Explanation: The story's focus on a thunderstorm highlights the power and beauty of nature, inspiring awe and respect.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and respect the natural world, understand weather patterns, and learn about environmental conservation.