The Bad Mood and the Stick- Beyond the Book Resources
I know Lemony Snicket from his Series of Unfortunate Events titles. My kids loved those books! With The Bad Mood and the Stick, he hasn’t actually veered too far out of "his lane". This book is quirky and odd, but its message is solid. One really nice touch that I wish more children's authors might consider is the use of a bit of hidden adult humor.
I don't want to leave out the genius behind the illustrations. Matthew Forsythe not only made the illustrations, beautiful and funny, but also meaningful. The bad mood is portrayed as an angry cloud hovering above one's head. However my favorite illustration and the one that makes kids laugh occurs when the man has to have his pants cleaned. Wait...it might be the wedding. There are too many to choose from.
Themes: Our Moods Don't Define Us Overcoming Obstacles
Awards & Accolades: Junior Library Guild Selection 2018 & 2021
Teachable Moments:
This story offers multiple opportunities for learning that go far beyond what's printed on the page or seen in the illustrations. Here's a small sample:
Rich Vocabulary
Story Map / Sequence / Order of Events
The Power of Repeated Words and Phrases - "You never know what is going to happen.
Problems & Solutions
Examples Shown with Images are for Reference Only - Not Part of the Download
Extend the Learning with Story-Based Play
Adding an element of play is another way to deepen your child’s understanding of concepts within and beyond a story. According to Hall (1991), young children often develop advanced literacy skills when they engage in play related to a familiar story. Many complex literacy skills develop naturally when the story and play intersect, setting the stage for your child to learn to read and write.
It’s easy. Take a great story, gather toys that align with that story, and get out of the way. Your child will do the rest. The goal is to allow the play to evolve naturally. You’ll be surprised by the amount of learning transferred and reinforced through this type of play.
Here’s Why We Love These Specific Products:
They have direct connections to the book.
They reinforce new vocabulary.
They encourage imaginative play
They make it easy to re-enact parts of the story.
They often take learning beyond the confines of the story.
Few require batteries, screens, or electricity.
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