Earl & Worm #1: The Bad Idea and Other Stories (Earl and Worm)
#1 in Earl and Worm Series
on Goodreads (17)
What’s inside...
Greg Pizzoli launches a new early-graphic-novel series with three short, high-energy stories about two very different friends. Earl usually dives into plans head-first, while the smaller, more cautious Worm prefers to think first—and sometimes hide under a leaf until the danger passes. Their humorous give-and-take leads to playful mishaps, gentle problem-solving, and the reassuring discovery that every not-so-great idea can be fixed when friends work together. The full-color panels, expressive speech bubbles, and clear visual cues make this title ideal for emerging readers who enjoy laugh-out-loud situations and warmhearted endings.
Character compass
Earl
Worm
Discussion points
Why did Earl’s first idea go wrong?
How did Worm help improve the plan?
Which character acts more like you?
What could they do differently next time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause before each climax and invite your child to guess the result.
Role-play Earl and Worm to practice negotiating safe solutions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Every idea benefits from feedback.
Explanation: Earl’s plans improve only after Worm voices concerns.
Real-World Application: Children learn to ask friends or adults for input before acting.
Example Lesson: Mistakes are part of learning.
Explanation: The friends laugh off failures and try again.
Real-World Application: Kids can re-attempt tasks after setbacks instead of quitting.
Example Lesson: Listening shows respect.
Explanation: Earl eventually stops to hear Worm’s viewpoint.
Real-World Application: Learners practice active listening with peers and siblings.
Example Lesson: Teamwork multiplies creativity.
Explanation: Their collaboration leads to a better final idea.
Real-World Application: Children see group projects as fun rather than stressful.