Dirtball Pete (Bolder Books for Boys and Girls)
Bolder Books For Boys And Girls Series
on Goodreads (143)
What’s inside...
A hilarious read-aloud picture book for boys and girls who just can't seem to stay clean! (And the parents who love their little dirtballs regardless.) It's a fact. Dirtball Pete stinks to high heaven. His sister, Amanda, says so, and her friend Janine totally agrees. Even with a good scrubbing from his mom, Dirtball Pete usually manages to revert to his dirtball self in no time. But today is no ordinary day—it's THE FIFTY STATES AND WHY THEY'RE GREAT! day at school, and Dirtball Pete has a speech to recite in the school play. Will he remember his lines? Will he manage to avoid his dog's muddy paws? Will the stink of his pet ferret, Eggroll, cling to his Pennsylvania costume? And can Dirtball Pete make his mom proud even if he is a dirtball? Eileen Brennan’s funny picture book has a refreshingly original voice and style and a lovable new character in Dirtball Pete, who, with his unassuming, carefree ways, will charm kids and adults alike.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Dirtball Pete
Mama
Discussion points
How do you think Dirtball Pete felt when others reacted to his dirtiness?
What are some ways Pete shows he cares about his friends?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? How did you handle it?
Why do you think it's important to accept people for who they are, even if they're different?
How did Pete's adventures make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to highlight the emotions of the characters, helping your child connect with their feelings.
Pause after exciting or critical moments in the story to ask your child what they think might happen next, fostering predictive skills.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences to deepen their understanding and empathy for Pete.
Discuss the outcomes of Pete's decisions and actions to teach lessons about consequences and responsibility.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene, enhancing their connection to the story and stimulating creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Uniqueness
Explanation: Dirtball Pete celebrates the unique and sometimes messy traits that make Pete special, showing kids that being different is not only okay but wonderful.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate their own unique qualities and those of others, fostering a sense of self-confidence and acceptance in diverse environments.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Throughout the story, Pete faces various challenges but does not give up. This highlights the importance of persistence and effort, regardless of the obstacles one might encounter.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to keep trying in the face of difficulties, whether it involves solving a puzzle, learning a new skill, or making friends.
Example Lesson: Understanding and Compassion
Explanation: The characters around Pete learn to look beyond initial impressions and understand his intentions and challenges, teaching empathy and deeper understanding.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy towards classmates who might seem different and foster a more inclusive and supportive community environment.