The Panda Problem
“Every story needs a problem. But Panda doesn’t have a problem. Unless Panda IS the problem.” The Panda Problem
I am super excited to be on the Panda Problem Blog Tour! The Panda Problem by written by Deborah Underwood and illustrated by Hannah Marks is a delightful picture book about the conversation between the narrator and the main character, Panda Bear.
The book begins with the premise that there is a “big problem”. However by page 3, Panda tells the reader, “I don’t have any problems. Lovely view. lots of bamboo to eat. sunny day-what could be better?” This troubles the narrator because there is always a problem in a story! What will happen next? Who is the problem? The conversation between the narrator and the panda is funny and the way the story is written is very unconventional, which can lead to many discussions with your children when reading aloud.
Language and Learning Tips
As you are reading the book, use intonation in your voice to be both the narrator and the panda bear. To learn more about using expressions during read alouds, click here. How does the narrator sound versus the panda bear? This book can help children learn how to take turns in conversation and also understand the disagreement between the narrator and the panda. For social skills, ask children, “How does the narrator feel towards the panda?” “How can you tell they don’t agree?” Although this book is intended for younger children, it can also be used with older children that have difficulties with social skills and understanding social cues.
Literacy Goals
To target literacy goals, role play with your child! You be the narrator and let your child be the panda! Have a back and forth conversation and discuss afterwards. This can be wonderful partner reading experience!
Story Maps
For this book, The Panda Problem it can be helpful to use a story map to write down and discuss the elements of the story. What is the problem in the story? What happened in the beginning, middle and end of the story. Check out these story maps by Reading Rockets here.
The Blog Tour
Video Trailer
Do you want to learn more about this book, check out the video trailer below