The Bawk-ness Monster
#1 in Cryptic Kids Series
What’s inside...
Penny swears that when she was a little girl, a creature called the Bawk-ness Monster—half sea serpent, half chicken—saved her from drowning. Now, years later, she’s about to move away to a new city, and before she goes, she needs the help of her best friends, Luc and K, for a vitally important mission: seeing 'Bessie' one more time. But in their quest to find Bessie and give Penny the send-off she deserves, the kids stumble into a whole new problem—cryptids are being kidnapped by an evil collector, and only Penny, Luc, and K can save them!
Discussion points
What do you think the Bawk-ness Monster looks like and why?
How did the characters' feelings change throughout the story?
What would you do if you met the Bawk-ness Monster?
Why is it important to understand and respect differences in others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a calm and curious tone to encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Relate questions to your child's experiences, such as times they've felt scared or misunderstood, to deepen the conversation.
Encourage creativity by asking your child to draw their version of the Bawk-ness Monster or to imagine a different ending to the story.
Highlight the moral of the story and discuss how understanding others can lead to friendships and acceptance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in facing fears
Explanation: In the story, the protagonist overcomes their fear of the mythical Bawk-ness Monster, discovering it's just a misunderstood creature.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing their fears and understand that sometimes, what they fear might not be as scary as it seems.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story emphasizes understanding the Bawk-ness Monster rather than fearing it, teaching that differences should be met with curiosity, not judgement.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by embracing diversity and showing empathy towards people who are different from them in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The power of friendship
Explanation: The characters in the book band together to solve the mystery of the Bawk-ness Monster, highlighting the strength found in camaraderie.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children appreciate the value of collaborating and supporting one another, whether in school projects or during playtime.
Example Lesson: Importance of communication
Explanation: Misunderstandings about the Bawk-ness Monster are cleared up through open dialogue among the characters.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the significance of clear and honest communication in resolving conflicts and making friends.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The protagonist’s quest to learn more about the Bawk-ness Monster drives the narrative, showcasing the benefits of curiosity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and explore the world around them, fostering a lifelong love of learning.