One Pizza, One Penny
What’s inside...
Originally published in Taiwan by Grimm Press, this beautifully illustrated modern fable will delight children with its charming portrayal of two friends. Ben Bear is renowned for his perfect pizzas. Chris Croc is famous for his mouthwatering cakes. When the richest man in the world buys a slice of Chris's pizza, he decides to go into business. But as soon as he sets up his roadside stand, Ben sets up one of his own across the street, and the neighbors turn into fierce rivals. Slow business and creeping hunger force the two chefs to come up with a solution that shows that friendship is the best possible nourishment.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How would you feel if you found a magical penny like in the story?
What would you buy if you had a penny that could turn into anything?
Why do you think the characters chose to buy a pizza with their penny?
What lesson did the characters learn at the end of the story?
If you had a magical item, how would you use it to help others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine their own magical item, discussing its powers and how they would use it.
Ask your child to relate the story to their own experiences with sharing and generosity.
Use the book’s theme to talk about the value of money and thoughtful spending.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and decision-making as shown by the characters when choosing what to buy.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing their favorite scene or creating a new adventure for the characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Sharing
Explanation: In the story, the characters learn the importance of sharing when they decide to share the last slice of pizza.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to share their toys or snacks with friends, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
Example Lesson: Importance of Decision Making
Explanation: The characters in the book face a dilemma on how to divide the pizza fairly, teaching the importance of making thoughtful decisions.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child's life when they have to make choices about fairness, such as dividing toys or time on a game equally among friends.
Example Lesson: Understanding Value and Economy
Explanation: The book introduces the concept of value and exchange when the characters discuss what a single penny can buy.
Real-World Application: Children learn the basic concept of money and its value, which they can use when learning about saving or making purchases.
Example Lesson: Creativity in Problem Solving
Explanation: The characters use creative thinking to solve the problem of dividing the pizza equally.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this approach to solve their own problems creatively, whether in school projects or in everyday challenges.