You're a Rude Pig, Bertie!
on Goodreads (56)
What’s inside...
Bertie is a vain, rude, and outspoken pig who quickly loses friends due to his behavior. After a disastrous party and an encounter with a beautiful bunny, Bertie has a change of heart. The book, illustrated by Claudia Boldt, known for her sophisticated artwork and recognition as a UK Booktrust Best New Illustrator of 2011, offers a hilarious comedy of manners.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
34 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Bertie's words affect the other characters in the story?
What could Bertie have done differently to be kinder?
Why is it important to think before we speak?
How did you feel when Bertie realized his mistakes?
Can you think of a time when you had to apologize for something you said?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on their own interactions with friends and family. Discuss the importance of kindness and the impact of words on others' feelings. Share personal stories where you learned a similar lesson as Bertie. This not only helps children relate to the character but also strengthens their understanding of social dynamics. Lastly, praise your child for sharing their thoughts and emotions during these discussions to encourage open communication.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Politeness
Explanation: Bertie, the main character, learns the consequences of his rude behavior towards others and the importance of being polite.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using polite words and understanding the positive impact it has on relationships with friends and family.
Example Lesson: Understanding Consequences
Explanation: The story showcases how Bertie’s rudeness leads to negative reactions from others, teaching children that there are consequences to their actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children think before they act and make more considerate choices in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Consideration
Explanation: Through Bertie’s experiences, readers see the value of considering others' feelings and the impact of one's actions on them.
Real-World Application: Children can use this understanding to foster compassion and treat others with respect, enhancing their social dynamics.
Example Lesson: Apologizing and Making Amends
Explanation: Bertie learns to acknowledge his mistakes and apologize, an important step in repairing his relationships.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children about the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and the healing power of a sincere apology.
Example Lesson: Respecting Differences
Explanation: Throughout the book, Bertie encounters characters who are different from him, learning to respect and accept these differences.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children embrace diversity and build more inclusive friendships in their own lives.