The 169-Storey Treehouse: Monkeys, Mirrors, Mayhem!
#13 of 14 in Treehouse Series
What’s inside...
The 169-Storey Treehouse is the newest installment in Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton's Treehouse series. In this edition, Andy and Terry add 13 new levels to their treehouse, featuring a range of imaginative spaces such as a tiny-horse level, a pyjama-party room, an 'Underpants Museum', and a photo-bombing booth. Amid publisher complaints about the silliness in their books, the duo faces a variety of funny scenarios and quirky characters as they try to address these concerns, manage monkey mayhem, and continue expanding their treehouse. The book promises consistent laughter and fun, making it an enjoyable read for series enthusiasts.
Character compass
Andy
Jill
Terry
Discussion points
What would you do if you had a treehouse like Andy and Terry's? Which of the 169 levels would you like to visit most?
How do the characters Andy, Terry, and Jill solve problems together? Can you think of a time when you worked with friends to solve a problem?
What role do the quirky inventions play in the story? If you could invent something for the treehouse, what would it be and why?
How do the characters react to unexpected events? What can their reactions teach us about dealing with surprises in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child’s imagination by asking them to describe their ideal treehouse or to draw it.
Discuss the value of teamwork as demonstrated by the characters. Highlight a scenario from the book and relate it to a family or school situation.
Prompt your child to think critically about the inventions in the book by asking what problem the invention solves and how they might improve it.
Use the book’s humorous and fantastical elements to discuss the difference between fantasy and reality, asking your child how they distinguish between the two in the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters Andy and Terry face a series of wacky challenges that require them to think creatively to solve problems.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills in their daily life by tackling puzzles, homework, or conflicts with friends using creative thinking and unconventional solutions.
Example Lesson: The value of teamwork
Explanation: Andy and Terry collaborate with their friends Jill, and various animal characters, emphasizing that teamwork can make difficult tasks easier and more fun.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to work effectively in groups during school projects or team sports, understanding that cooperation can lead to better outcomes and more enjoyable experiences.
Example Lesson: Importance of imagination
Explanation: The fantastical elements and outlandish adventures in the '169-Storey Treehouse' show how imagination can transform ordinary scenarios into extraordinary ones.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination in play, art, and storytelling, fostering creativity that can enhance problem-solving and innovation in real-life situations.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and consequences
Explanation: The characters often face consequences for silly or reckless actions, teaching readers about the importance of considering the impact of their decisions.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that their choices have outcomes that affect themselves and others, promoting responsibility in their actions.