Olympig!



Last updated Monday, April 27, 2020

Author: Victoria Jamieson
Date of Publication: 2012
ISBN: 0803735367
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Nov. 2012

Synopsis: Boomer the Pig has been training hard for the Animal Olympics, so when he loses his first race, he shrugs it off and cheerfully moves on. One event after another, Boomer keeps losing, and the frustration begins to get to him. But even after coming in last in every sport, there's no getting this Olympig down. It's just great practice for the Winter Games!

Note to readers:
•  Hear and see this book read aloud on YouTube by two of our volunteers, including a craft at the end!

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Did you watch the Olympics?
•  What Olympic sport did you enjoy the most?
•  Do you play any sports? Which ones?

Vocabulary:
•  Underdog- someone who is not expected to win
•  Lousy- not doing very well
•  Battered- to be hurt from working very hard
•  Grand Finale- the last part of a show that is very exciting

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  What are the animals that gather for the Animal Olympics?
•  Do you think Boomer really took the loss well?
•  Have you ever been in a competition? Did you win? Did you lose? Would you try again?
•  Have you ever been on T.V.? Have you ever been interviewed?

Craft ideas:
•  Make an Olympic medal from paper plates or construction paper and yarn.
•  Make a pig mask. Use a paper plate, construction paper, or a paper bag to make a pig puppet.
•  Idea for Thanksgiving- trace your hand on construction paper to make a turkey. Decorate it however you like!

Special activities:
•  Have a jumping jack contest -- who can do the most in 20 seconds?
•  Who can jump the highest off the ground?

*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!