The 156-Story Treehouse
#12 of 14 in Treehouse Series
What’s inside...
Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton's '156-Story Treehouse' is the twelfth book in their illustrated chapter book series. The story follows Andy and Terry, who are unprepared for Christmas, having not written to Santa or decorated. When Santa crash-lands in their treehouse, chaos ensues with multiple cloned Santas appearing. Together with their friend Jill, Andy and Terry work to save Christmas and finish their book on time. The series is praised for its anarchic absurdity and appeal to reluctant readers, drawing comparisons to the works of Jeff Kinney and Dav Pilkey.
Character compass
Andy
Jill
Terry
Discussion points
What would you do if you had your own treehouse with 156 stories? Which features would you add and why?
How do Andy and Terry solve problems they encounter in the treehouse? Can you think of a time when you solved a problem with your friends?
What is your favorite story or adventure in the treehouse and what lessons did it teach you?
If you could create an invention for the treehouse, what would it be and how would it help Andy and Terry?
How do the characters use their imagination to have fun and overcome challenges? How can you use your imagination in your daily life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Show genuine interest in their responses to encourage deeper thinking. Listen actively and ask follow-up questions based on what they share.
Relate the stories or scenarios from the book to real-life experiences your child might face to help them connect with the themes.
Encourage your child to draw or create something inspired by the treehouse’s features, fostering a connection between reading and creativity.
Discuss the importance of teamwork and friendship as demonstrated by Andy and Terry, and relate it to your child’s experiences with friends.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The characters in 'The 156-Story Treehouse' work together to tackle challenges and build their treehouse, demonstrating the importance of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in group activities at school or community projects, learning to cooperate and value each person's contributions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The imaginative and limitless additions to the treehouse inspire readers to think creatively and outside the box.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to engage in creative play, art projects, or problem-solving tasks, fostering innovative thinking skills.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters encounter various problems that they must solve to continue building their treehouse, teaching the step-by-step process of problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children can use these skills to approach their own challenges, whether it's resolving conflicts with peers or tackling difficult homework.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: As obstacles arise, the treehouse builders persist and adapt, highlighting the virtues of resilience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to not give up easily in the face of difficulties, be it in their studies, sports, or personal goals.