This is a very special book: I discovered it at the Salon du Livre et de la Presse Jeunesse in Montreuil on 2nd December 2016 before I got the chance to meet its author (also the author of “Je m’habille et je te croque” as well as all the “Trotro” books), Bénédicte Guettier. What a privilege it was!! She was so sweet!! She had no idea her books were so popular in the UK to help children learn French and when I told her she was quite overwhelmed! She is now talking about a possible visit over here!! I showed her photos of my bus and a photo of her books on it then introduced her to Mini Miss Paris… look at what she did… She drew a picture of Mini Miss Paris driving the bus with all 10 children from the story on it! Her message is so thoughtful too… I will try to keep in touch with her… and use more of her stories for sure!!
Click here to watch a short video of me introducing the story.
Language of text: French
Type of text: picture book
Author or source: Bénédicte Guettier, published by Casterman
Intended age of students: Key Stage 1/2/3
Source reference: 9782203084575
Approaches:
This book is great in many respect: it tells the story of a single dad, which is a refreshing change, and how he looks after his 10 children then builds a boat to go away from them for a long break… I will not spoil the end for you!!
I want to read it with a class to introduce or reinforce in a fun and attractive context vocabulary which relates to daily routine, clothes and/or food. It also challenges stereotypes.
Rationale:
I want to use it because the language is authentic and accessible, the story will make everyone smile, the pictures are clear and colourful. It is a beautiful book!
Outcomes:
The children will enjoy the story but could also write their own version of it: change the clothes, the food, what the dad builds… They could make their own minibooks. It is great for recycling vocabulary.
Topics or themes:
Daily routine, clothes, food
Grammar:
Imperfect
How much time required:
1-2 lessons
I found some interesting resources here and here with ideas of other books which can help challenge stereotypes too. Enjoy!!
If you like this story, you may want to check out my other blogs with books by Bénédicte Guettier. Amongst others: Trognon et Pépin, Le petit fantôme qui voulait qu’on le voit, Je m’habille… et je te croque! , L’âne Trotro fait du vélo and at Easter time L’âne Trotro: Zaza et les œufs de Pâques.
Can you recommend a book with a father figure in it? Please share in in the comments below!
