The Story of Babar



Last updated Thursday, November 17, 2011

Author: Jean De Brunhoff
Date of Publication: 1937
ISBN: 9780394805757
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Aug. 2011

Synopsis: An orphaned baby elephant goes to live in the city with an old lady who gives him everything he wants, but he eventually returns to the forest where he is crowned king of the elephants.

Note to readers:
•  Warn the kids that some sad things happen in the book

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Have you see the movie?
•  Have you seen an elephant before?
•  What do you know about elephants?

Vocabulary
•  p.40: "dromedary" a Camel with one hump on its back
•  p. 40 "coronation"
•  p.38: "quavering"
•  p.22: "learned"

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  See pp.4-5: Find Babar. Also, what are the other elephants doing?
•  Have you ever seen anything new that you've wanted for yourself? (p.10)
•  How would you dress Babar? Do you know of any places that would carry elephant-sized clothing? (p.15)
•  Do you think Babar should stay in the town or go back to the forest? (p.31)
•  Name all the animals you see on pp.44-45

Craft ideas:
•  Draw Babar wearing clothes (e.g. What would he wear in LA?)
•  Draw where Babar would go after the hot air balloon

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!