Leonardo, the Terrible Monster



Last updated Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Author: Mo Willems
Date of Publication: 2005
ISBN: 0786852941
Grade Level: 1st    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Oct. 2022

Synopsis: Leonardo is truly a terrible monster - terrible at being a monster, that is. No matter how hard he tries, he can't seem to frighten anyone. Determined to succeed, Leonardo sets himself to training and research. Finally, he finds a nervous little boy, and scares the tuna salad out of him! But scaring people isn't quite as satisfying as he thought it would be. Leonardo realizes that he might be a terrible, awful monster - but he could be a really good friend.

Note to readers:
•  This is a simple story, and may ease fears young children have about monsters.
•  We're having a magic show today at 11:15am at the lunch tables, so bring the kids back at 11:10am.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Do you think monsters are real. Are they part animal?
•  Does Leonardo (on the cover) look like a monster? A terrible monster?
•  Do you think Leonardo is a human or an animal?

Vocabulary:

•  researched - to learn more about something (who to scare)
•  candidate - a person who is a good fit for the job (who to scare)

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  Why did Leonardo choose Sam to scare?
•  Why was Sam crying?
•  Was Sam scared by Leonardo trying making noises and jumping around?
•  What was Leonardo’s big decision?
•  Do you think Leonardo was a “terrible” monster?
•  Does the story have a happy ending for Sam and Leonardo?

Craft ideas:
•  Let's draw friendly monster faces using glue sticks and bright colored crepe paper or colored paper on paper plates (or round paper).
•  Check our craft ideas on Pinterest! https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/october-2022-halloween-magic-monsters/

*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!