#1 in Whatever After Series
Once Upon a Frog
on Goodreads (2,369)
What’s inside...
The book follows the story of Abby and Jonah, who are transported to the fairy tale of 'The Frog Prince'. They accidentally turn the prince back into a frog and must find a way to reverse the spell.
Character compass
Discussion points
If you could have any magical power like the characters in the book, what would it be and why?
How do you think the character felt when their adventure started? Have you ever felt the same way?
What lessons do you think the frog wants to teach us about friendship?
Why is it important to help others, even if they’re different from us?
How do the choices that the characters make affect their journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the questions, relate the characters' experiences to real-life scenarios your child might encounter. It helps them connect with the story on a deeper level.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or different decisions the characters could have made. This enhances creative thinking.
Use expressive reading techniques, changing your voice for different characters, to make the story more engaging and lively.
After reading the book, ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character. It helps in retaining their interest and deepening their understanding of the story's themes.
Praise your child’s responses, even if they differ from the expected answers, to build confidence and encourage open expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Once Upon a Frog', the protagonist learns to understand and empathize with characters who initially seem very different from themselves.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to appreciate and respect the differences in their peers, fostering inclusive behaviors from a young age.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving Skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, the main characters encounter various challenges that they must overcome, demonstrating effective problem-solving approaches.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think critically and creatively when faced with obstacles, helping them navigate everyday problems more effectively.
Example Lesson: The importance of Perseverance
Explanation: The characters in 'Once Upon a Frog' persist through difficult situations without giving up, ultimately leading to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of persistence in achieving their own goals, whether in their academic pursuits, personal projects, or relationships.
Example Lesson: Taking Responsibility
Explanation: Characters in the story are often placed in situations where they must take responsibility for their actions, which leads to personal growth.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the impact of their actions and encourages them to take responsibility in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: Several challenges in the book are resolved through teamwork, showcasing how collaboration can solve problems that might seem insurmountable individually.
Real-World Application: Teaching kids the importance of working together can enhance their ability to cooperate and work effectively in group settings in school or other social environments.