Penny Pollard Guide to Modern Manners
#5 in Penny Pollard Series
on Goodreads (47)
What’s inside...
In 'Penny Pollard's Guide to Modern Manners,' author Robin Klein presents a humorous exploration of etiquette via Penny Pollard, a quirky and outspoken young girl. Tasked with a school project on manners by Ms. James, Penny embarks on a mission to redefine 'modern manners' with the help of Mrs. Bettany. Throughout the book, Penny addresses various social dilemmas faced by young people, from bed-wetting to friendship issues, using her unique perspective and witty commentary. The book offers a satirical take on traditional etiquette, filled with comical illustrations and Penny’s entertaining misadventures, while subtly teaching young readers how to handle social situations with grace and consideration for others.
Character compass
Penny Pollard
Discussion points
What do you think are the most important manners Penny talks about in the book?
How do you think good manners help us in everyday situations?
Can you remember a time when someone's manners really affected your day?
If you could add a rule to Penny's guide to modern manners, what would it be and why?
How do you feel when people around you don't use good manners?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, emphasize the relevance of manners in maintaining pleasant interactions and relationships with others.
Encourage your child to share personal experiences where they felt manners played a crucial role. This connection between real life and Penny’s guidelines makes the conversation more relatable.
Highlight scenarios from the book and ask your child how they would react in those situations, fostering critical thinking about manners.
Appreciate and acknowledge your child's viewpoints and experiences as they discuss manners, reinforcing their interest and engagement in the topic.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Politeness
Explanation: Penny Pollard navigates through various social situations, demonstrating the value of politeness and courtesy.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these principles in their interactions at school or family gatherings, understanding how politeness fosters respect and positive relationships.
Example Lesson: Understanding Different Perspectives
Explanation: Through her adventures, Penny encounters diverse viewpoints and learns to appreciate them.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the skill of empathy, enabling them to recognize and respect the opinions and feelings of others in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Penny is placed in scenarios where she has to manage responsibilities, showing the consequences of both responsible and irresponsible behaviors.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions, be it homework or chores, fostering a sense of accountability.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, Penny faces challenges that require critical thinking and problem solving.
Real-World Application: This lesson equips children with the ability to think critically and solve problems they encounter in school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: Penny's experiences teach her how to adapt to unexpected changes and new environments.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of being flexible and adapting to changes such as moving to a new school or facing new family dynamics.