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MY FAVORITES

Age Range

4 - 8

Genre

folktale

2007-04-16

Page Count

Publisher

August House

Grade Level

Pre-K - 3rd

ISBN

9780874838282

Lexile

450

Themes

courage

resourcefulness

anti-bullying

The Clever Monkey Rides Again

Written by Rob Cleveland and Illustrated by Tom Wrenn

The Clever Monkey Rides Again is an engaging African folktale that follows a witty monkey as he outsmarts a neighborhood bully. When a mean lion begins playing pranks on the jungle animals, the resourceful monkey uses his cleverness to turn the tables and restore peace. This humorous children's story is perfect for teaching young readers about the power of intelligence over physical strength. It serves as a great read-aloud book for parents and teachers looking to discuss bravery and problem-solving.

Support Materials

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Age Range

4 - 8

Genre

folktale

2007-04-16

Page Count

Publisher

August House

Grade Level

Pre-K - 3rd

ISBN

9780874838282

Lexile

450

Themes

courage

resourcefulness

anti-bullying

Additional Book Resources

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The Pig Who Went Home on Sunday

Written by Donald Davis and Illustrated by Jennifer Mazzucco

Follow three clever pigs as they try to outsmart a tricky red fox in the beautiful mountains. This award-winning book is perfect for children who love folktales and stories about being brave.

Pre-K - 3rd

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The Clever Monkey

Written by Rob Cleveland and Illustrated by Baird Hoffmire

The Clever Monkey is an entertaining children's picture book that retells a classic West African folktale about two greedy cats and a very smart monkey. When the cats find a delicious piece of cheese but can't agree on how to share it, the monkey steps in with a "helpful" plan that actually serves his own appetite.

Pre-K - 3rd

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The Legend of the Poinsettia

Written and Illustrated by Tomie dePaola

In Mexico, the poinsettia is called flor de la Nochebuenao flower of the Holy Night. At...

K - 4th

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Anansí and Turtle Go to Dinner

Written by Bobby Norfolk and Sherry Norfolk and Illustrated by Baird Hoffmire

In Anansí and Turtle Go to Dinner, the clever but selfish spider Anansí tries to trick his friend Turtle to avoid sharing a delicious meal. However, Turtle soon comes up with a smart plan of his own to teach the trickster a funny lesson about being a good host.

Pre-K - 3rd

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Anansí and the Tug O' War

Written by Bobby Norfolk and Sherry Norfolk and Illustrated by Baird Hoffmire

In Anansí and the Tug O' War, the clever spider Anansí uses his quick wits to teach the giant Elephant and the massive Whale a lesson about respect. By challenging them both to a tug-of-war, he tricks the two large animals into pulling against each other while he watches the fun.

Pre-K - 3rd

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The Dancing Turtle: A Folktale from Brazil

Written by Pleasant DeSpain and Illustrated by David Boston

The Dancing Turtle is a vibrant children's picture book that retells a classic indigenous Brazilian folktale about a music-loving turtle captured by a hunter. To escape becoming turtle stew, the clever protagonist must use her wit and the help of the hunter's children to find her way back to the rainforest.

Pre-K - 4th

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The Three Little Pigs and the Somewhat Bad Wolf

Written and Illustrated by Mark Teague

Three pigs spend their money on different things: potato chips, sody-pop, and building supplies. It...

Pre-K - 2nd

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Tim O'Toole and the Wee Folk

Written by Gerald McDermott

Tim O’Toole and his wife, Kathleen, are so poor they have not a penny or a potato between them. Even...

K - 3rd

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Anansí Goes to Lunch

Written by Bobby Norfolk and Sherry Norfolk and Illustrated by Baird Hoffmire

In Anansí Goes to Lunch, the greedy spider Anansí thinks he is clever when he accepts three different lunch invitations for the same day. He ties a rope around his waist and asks each friend to tug it when the food is ready, but a huge surprise awaits him when all three meals are served at once.

Pre-K - 3rd

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Anansí and the Sky Kingdom

Written by Bobby Norfolk and Sherry Norfolk and Illustrated by Baird Hoffmire

In Anansí and the Sky Kingdom, the world is dark and King Lion needs someone brave to bring back the light. After many animals fail, the clever spider Anansí uses his quick wits and trickster skills to visit the Sky Kingdom and save the world.

Pre-K - 3rd

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