Tiny Barbarian Conquers the Kraken!
#2 in Tiny Barbarian Series
What’s inside...
Our fearless tiny hero conquers another common childhood fear—swim lessons!—in this epic follow-up to his origin story, Tiny Barbarian. After admiring the new movie poster for Bob the Barbarian Conquers The Kraken, Tiny wants to battle a kraken in the choppy seas, too! There’s just one problem: Tiny doesn't know how to swim! Off to the community pool for Tiny’s first swim lesson! With a swim cap stretched over his signature barbarian “helmet” and some cool new gear, Tiny learns to blow bubbles, float, dog paddle, kick, and build his confidence in the water. Just in time, because a tentacled fearsome foe rises from the deep end of the pool! Can Tiny use his new skills to defend his realm, protect his family, and save the day? Once more, Ame Dyckman (You Don't Want A Unicorn!) and Ashley Spires (The Most Magnificent Thing) show that with a little bravery and a big imagination, tiny barbarians really can “CONQUER EVERYTHING!”
Discussion points
How did the Tiny Barbarian show bravery in the story?
Why do you think the Tiny Barbarian wanted to conquer the Kraken?
What would you have done if you were in the Tiny Barbarian's place?
How did the other characters in the book help the Tiny Barbarian?
What did you learn from the Tiny Barbarian's adventure?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the bravery of the Tiny Barbarian to their own life. Ask them about a time they felt brave.
Discuss the theme of teamwork and ask your child about a time they worked together with friends or family to achieve something.
Use expressive reading to make the story more engaging. Change your tone of voice to match the emotions and actions in the book.
After reading, ask your child to draw a scene from the book that they found exciting or important. Discuss why they chose that particular scene.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: In the book, the Tiny Barbarian faces the Kraken, a symbol of his fears. Despite feeling scared, he confronts the creature bravely.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears, whether it's trying out for a sports team, standing up in class, or sleeping alone in the dark. They can draw strength from the Tiny Barbarian's example to tackle challenges with courage.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout his adventure, the Tiny Barbarian needs to think creatively to navigate obstacles and eventually conquer the Kraken. His solutions are clever and show the importance of thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to use their imagination and critical thinking in problem-solving, be it in their academic tasks or personal challenges.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Despite several setbacks in his journey, the Tiny Barbarian persists and does not give up on his goal to conquer the Kraken.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of not giving up when faced with difficulties. Perseverance is a valuable trait in schoolwork, hobbies, and relationships.