Tough Cookie
on Goodreads (579)
What’s inside...
When a cookie discovers he does NOT taste delicious, he embarks on a journey to find a new identity in this cleverly illustrated picture book. This twist on a holiday classic is perfect for children in kindergarten through first grade, with a Lexile level of AD550L and a Guided Reading Level L. The book comprises 40 pages of fairy tales, folk tales, and fables, providing a fresh and humorous take on self-discovery and acceptance.
Discussion points
What do you think makes Cookie feel tough, and can you think of a time you felt the same?
Why do you think it's important for Cookie to try and find out what he's really made for?
How do you think Cookie felt when things didn't go as expected?
What does Cookie's journey teach us about not giving up?
Can you think of ways we can be supportive to friends who are feeling down or confused like Cookie?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own feelings about challenges and resilience, relating it to Cookie’s experiences.
Draw parallels between Cookie’s emotional journey and real-life scenarios your child might encounter, enhancing empathy and understanding.
Highlight the importance of persistence and trying new things through discussions about Cookie’s adventures.
Use expressive reading to emphasize the emotional highs and lows that Cookie experiences, making the story more relatable.
After reading, engage in a reflective talk about what your child learned from Cookie’s story and how they can apply these lessons in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: In 'Tough Cookie,' the main character faces challenges but learns to overcome them through persistence and adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges, whether in school or social situations, with a positive attitude and determination.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: The protagonist discovers that being different is okay and learns to accept themselves as they are.
Real-World Application: This can help children embrace their unique qualities and feel confident in who they are, boosting their self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Kindness
Explanation: The story showcases how characters demonstrate kindness towards each other, fostering a supportive community.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to be compassionate and understanding toward others, encouraging them to build strong and supportive relationships.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, the characters face various problems that they solve using their wit and resources.
Real-World Application: This lesson equips children with the ability to think critically and find solutions to obstacles they encounter in school or at home.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: The protagonist learns to adapt to situations that did not turn out as expected.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of being flexible and adapting to changes, whether it's a move to a new school or changes in their family life.