Officer Buckle and Gloria
on Goodreads (29,803)
What’s inside...
This picture book, a winner of the Caldecott Medal, tells the charming and humorous story of unlikely friends who overcome a misunderstanding. With delightful illustrations, accidental mayhem, and useful safety tips, this book is praised for its engaging story and characters. Critics commend Rathmann's ability to create relatable characters and dramatic situations, as well as her light comic touch that make this book a standout work that captivates young readers. The book features affable illustrations of the smiling character Gloria, and various amusing safety tips interspersed throughout, adding to the enjoyment. Rathmann's flair for creating believable characters and funny, thought-provoking situations is highlighted by reviewers from The Horn Book, Children's Book Review Magazine, Publisher's Weekly, and School Library Journal, who all offer high praises for her work.
Age
4-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Officer Buckle
Gloria
Discussion points
What do you think are the most important safety tips that Officer Buckle shares? Why?
How does Gloria help Officer Buckle? Do you think they make a good team?
How do you feel when Officer Buckle and Gloria are working together compared to when they are alone?
What did you learn about helping others from the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressions and voices for Officer Buckle and Gloria to make the story more engaging and entertaining.
After reading, discuss the importance of safety and teamwork, relating them to real-life situations in the child’s environment.
Encourage your child to think of their own safety tips and discuss why they are important.
Reflect on how Officer Buckle felt without Gloria, highlighting empathy and the importance of friends at work.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Officer Buckle discovers that safety tips are more effective when presented with Gloria's help. His presentations become engaging and impactful, showcasing the strength found in collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value working together with others to achieve better results, whether in school projects or in playing sports.
Example Lesson: Value of listening
Explanation: As the story unfolds, Officer Buckle realizes that the audience is actually engaged because of Gloria. This twist emphasizes the need to listen and observe others' contributions.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to pay attention to others around them, understanding that effective communication involves both speaking and listening.
Example Lesson: Safety awareness
Explanation: Through the humorous and engaging safety tips that Officer Buckle and Gloria present, children learn about the importance of safety precautions in everyday life.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied directly as children remember to follow safety rules at home, in school, and while playing, helping to prevent accidents.
Example Lesson: The impact of support
Explanation: The story shows how Gloria supports Officer Buckle's presentations, leading to their success. It highlights how support from friends or colleagues can lead to improved outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of supporting others in their tasks, promoting a collaborative and encouraging environment.