Big Nate: Top Dog: Two Books in One
#4 of 31 in Big Nate Series
on Goodreads (2,125)
What’s inside...
Now an animated series with Paramount+ and Nickelodeon! A special Big Nate volume including all of the comics from Big Nate And Friends and Big Nate Makes The Grade. The adventurous antics of sixth grader Nate Wright are on full display in this special collection, which includes all the comics from classic titles Big Nate and Friends and Big Nate Makes the Grade. Joining Nate in the fun at P.S. 38 are his best pals, Francis and Teddy. Whether he's setting the school record for detentions, earning an A for annoying teacher's pet Gina, or inventing new ways to trash talk during a chess tournament, Nate's talent for making mischief is second to none.
Character compass
Nate Wright
Teddy Ortiz
Francis Pope
Marty Wright
Ellen Wright
Mrs. Godfrey
Gina Hemphill-Toms
Discussion points
What do you think makes Nate a 'top dog' in his school? Can you think of qualities that make someone a leader?
How do Nate's friendships change throughout the stories? Discuss what makes a friendship strong.
Nate faces several challenges in the book. What are some ways he handles these situations? How would you handle similar situations?
What role do the other characters play in Nate's adventures? How do they help or hinder him?
If you could give Nate one piece of advice, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to connect personal experiences with Nate’s adventures, fostering deeper comprehension and empathy. Ask open-ended questions to inspire critical thinking and personal reflection. Relate discussions back to real-life scenarios to help your child apply lessons from the book in everyday situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Big Nate often finds himself in situations where he must take accountability for his actions, such as missing homework or pranks gone awry.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of accepting responsibility for their actions and understanding the consequences in everyday activities, such as schoolwork and interactions with friends.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the book, Nate faces various challenges, whether in sports or school projects, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: Encourages kids to stay determined and keep trying, even when faced with difficulties in their studies, hobbies, or relationships.
Example Lesson: Friendship
Explanation: The story showcases Nate navigating friendships, including resolving conflicts and supporting his friends in need.
Real-World Application: Highlights the value of friendships and teaches children how to be supportive friends and resolve conflicts in a constructive manner.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Big Nate is known for his witty comic strips and creative solutions to problems.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to explore their artistic talents and think creatively to solve problems, both in school projects and in their play.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: There are moments in the book where Nate learns to understand and share the feelings of others, especially when his actions affect his friends.
Real-World Application: Helps children learn the importance of considering other people's feelings and perspectives, promoting empathy in interpersonal relationships and group settings.