This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy here.
5 Minutes for Books staff reviewer Nancy received copies of the books to facilitate her review. As always, our writer’s opinions are her own.
Author, former teacher and mom Kate Messner has battled the back-to-school blues from all sides – and won (read more from Kate at her guest post at 5 Minutes for Books).
Her picture books Sea Monster and the Bossy Fish and Sea Monster’s First Day help students, parents and teachers address some of the fears and challenges that come at the end of summer and the beginning of the school year.
In Sea Monster’s First Day, Ernest navigates through his first day at a new school, where other fish shun him because of his size. He comes up with a creative way to use his size to his advantage and the other fish decide he’s not so bad.
In the newest book, Sea Monster and the Bossy Fish, there’s a new fish at school and Ernest wants to make him feel comfortable. But it doesn’t take long for Ernest to realize this new fish is a little bossy, doing anything for a laugh. When the new fish forms a club that excludes some of their classmates, Ernest again finds a way for all of the fish to be included in the club.
With vibrant illustrations created by Andy Rash, the Sea Monster books provide fun twists on back-to-school challenges. I love the dialog bubbles that add dimension to the stories, and there are a few fish puns thrown in that add to the fun. Kids will love the drawings and pick up on the “be nice to others” theme. You can download the Fish Friends Pledge certificate if you’d like to help your kids commit to be good friends.
Read Kate Messner’s guest post over at 5 Minutes for Books to read more about how parents can use books as springboards.
This week Chronicle Books is offering a special discount to get 30% off + free shipping at ChronicleBooks.com, just enter this promotion code: SEAMONSTER. Offer ends September 6, 2013
Enter to win
Chronicle Books is providing a copy of both Sea Monster and the Bossy Fish and Sea Monster’s First Day, plus a classroom poster of the “Fish Friends Pledge.”
Use the Rafflecopter form to enter this giveaway. New to Rafflecopter? Watch this 45-second video on how to enter!
Christine says
I use books all the time, they are great information starters and often say things better than I can 🙂
Natalie says
No but it’s a great idea thank you
DEBIJOT says
Yes, a book that is on a child’s level can help with explaining difficult situations.
itzybellababy says
We haven’t yet, but could in the future.
1955nurse says
Yes – the Kissing Hand… it’s a wonderful book, & now there are more in the series! Thanks for the chance….
(Posting some of these entries, not sure if they’re going thru or not! The post doesn’t show up, but if I try to re-post it says “Duplicate entry, you’ve already said that!)
1955nurse says
Yes – the Kissing Hand… it’s a wonderful book, & now there are more in the series! Thanks for the chance….
JoBeth says
yes we discuss strangers bullying safety issues
katklaw777 says
Yes…Yertle the Turtle…about using other people to get what you want and not in a good way.
Melissa P. says
Yes. I like to use all types of mediums as examples to teach my child about situations and daily life.
Staci A says
Yes, I think books are a great resource when dealing with tough topics.
Cheryl ( says
I have used a book for using the potty and for when I was expecting his little brother.
nikki says
Yes, we use books for a lot of topics, they are great for teaching kids about sensitive topics as well
chana says
yes books are great for that
michelle b. says
No I just usually talk straight forward to them
Patricia says
I haven’t but I think it is a wonderful idea!
Barbara Platt says
yes, it makes it easier to explain it to them
Heather says
yes, book are a great way to introduce hard, sensitive subjects with kids.
Charlene S says
I have not, but I would.
Robin Wilson says
I have used the Bible
happymomc says
No, I have not yet
Janet W. says
I’ve read sharing books to my young grandsons!
chelsea says
Yes! That’s one of my favorite ways to communicate sensitive things to my kids
amyc says
I haven’t yet because my daughter hasn’t started school yet. This sounds like a good way to discuss it with her.
Anne says
I haven’t as yet but would consider it.