Educational Activities: Naughty Ninja Takes a Bath by Todd Tarpley

On January 20, 2020July 13, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

Naughty Ninja Takes a Bath
Author: Todd Tarpley
Illustrator: Vin Vogel
Two Lions
1 December 2019
32 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “After crossing raging rivers and tromping through the jungle, Naughty Ninja returns to his secret ninja training camp for lunch. But when he gets inside, his parents tell him he needs a bath. Before Naughty Ninja gets in the tub, he notices poisonous flies and an angry alligator circling his dad, who doesn’t even seem to know he’s in trouble. Good thing Naughty Ninja is around to save the day!

Amid sudsy fun, a boy’s imaginary ninja life and his everyday world collide in the ultimate bath time adventure.”

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Educational Activities inspired by Todd Tarpley’s Naughty Ninja Takes a Bath:

Before Reading–From looking at the front and back cover:
- What do you think of when you think about ninjas?
- What type of naughtiness do you expect here?
- Where and when does this story seem to take place?
- What type of creatures are lurking in the water?
- What is the Naughty Ninja up to on the back cover?
- If you could ask the author any one question before you read the book, what would it be?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- Which events in the story seemed most important?
- How did you react when Ninja Dad fell into the tub?
- What would you have done if you were the ninja and you realized there were “wild, poisonous flies”?
- Do you think the Naughty Ninja means to cause trouble?
Writing–Naughty Ninjas get into trouble, even when they don’t mean to. What other adventures might this Naughty Ninja get into? Dream up one of them, and write that story yourself. Will Ninja Dad end up in the tub water again? Will Naughty Ninja save the day? Consider using crayons to draw pictures to go with your story.
Craft–With an adult’s help, try some of the following ninja-themed crafts:
- LEGO Ninjas–You have to have LEGOs of your own here, but if you have some, these are easy to make with this guide.
- Ninja Stress Ball–There are lots of ways to make these and even more ways to fill them. Fun!
- Origami Ninja Stars–Lots of folding here, but these are both pretty and cool.
- Paper Bag Ninja Craft–This one requires a bit more work and help than others, but the result is worth it.
- Toilet Roll Ninjas–All you need are toilet roll paper cores, paint, straws, and a black marker.
Further Reading–Who doesn’t love ninjas, right? How many other books about ninjas have you read? Here are a few of OPB’s favorites. (Click on the book cover for more information on any of these titles!)

Educational Activities: This Book Is Gray by Lindsay Ward

On December 16, 2019July 13, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

This Book Is Gray
Author: Lindsay Ward
Illustrator: Lindsay Ward
Two Lions
1 December 2019
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Gray just wants to be included. But the other colors are always leaving him out. So he decides to create his own project: an all-gray book. Once upon a time, there lived a wolf, a kitten, and a hippo…

Gray just knows it’s going to be perfect. But as he adds page after page, the Primary and Secondary colors show up…and they aren’t quite so complimentary.

A book within a book, this colorful tale explores the ideas of fitting in, appreciating others, and looking at things from another perspective and also uses personality and wit to introduce basic color concepts.”

Need some reviews of This Book Is Gray?

Educational Activities inspired by Lindsay Ward’s This Book Is Gray:

Before Reading–From looking at the front and back cover:
- What do you think this book will be about?
- Where and when does this story seem to take place?
- What does the word “gray” make you think of?
- What type of creature is on the front cover?
- Why do the creatures on the back cover appear to be so happy?
- If you could ask the author any question before you read the book, what would it be?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- What were the most important events in the story?
- How did you react when the colors arrived and wanted to take over Gray’s story?
- Which of the verbal puns (like “sometimes we can be a little off-color” etc.) did you most enjoy?
- If the story had a sequel, what do you think it would be about?
Writing–Gray is an underdog character who rarely–if ever–gets to tell his own story his own way. What characters from other books would like the same chance to tell their stories? Select one and write that story. If you feel like drawing pictures to go with the story you’re writing, get some crayons or colored pencils and draw away! What type of story will your character tell? What challenges will they face, and how will they overcome them? Consider sharing the finished story with a friend or adult.
Interview–Sometimes the best way to get to know someone is interviewing them. If you interviewed Gray with the following questions, how might Gray respond? Consider inviting an adult or friend to either ask questions (or answer them) as they imagine Gray might. Feel free to add more questions of your own!
- What are your hobbies?
- What makes you laugh?
- What scares you?
- What is your earliest memory?
- What secret do you have?
- What is your dream job?
Craft–With an adult’s help, try some of the following color-themed crafts:
- Color Caterpillars Paper Craft–A simple cut and paste craft.
- Color CD Spinners–This one requires an adult’s help because it uses a glue gun.
- Paper Strip Music Note–Colorful and fun. Requires downloading some files, printing, and cutting.
- Rainbow Sponge Painting–Can get a bit messy, but kids love this one.
- Red Firefighter Hat–Easy to make!
Further Reading–This Book Is Gray is about a number of things, including the world of colors. Which of these other books about colors have you read? (Click on the book cover for more information on any of these titles!)

Educational Activities: Santa’s Story by Will Hillenbrand

On November 18, 2019July 13, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

Santa’s Story
Author: Will Hillenbrand
Illustrator: Will Hillenbrand
Two Lions
10 September 2019
32 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Santa is ready to leave on Christmas Eve, but he can’t find the reindeer anywhere. Dasher is busy dashing, Donner is dozing, and Cupid is crooning. It isn’t until Santa remembers their annual tradition—reading a Christmas story together—that the reindeer are ready. Reindeer merriment abounds in this charming yuletide tale about honoring the celebration of holiday customs with those you love.”

Need some reviews of Santa’s Story?

Kirkus

Publisher’s Weekly

Youth Services Book Review

Educational Activities inspired by Santa’s Story by Will Hillenbrand:

Before Reading–From looking at the front and back cover:
- What do you think this book will be about?
- What type of creatures are following Santa?
- Why does Santa seem so happy?
- Where and when does this story seem to take place?
- What questions would you like to ask the author before you read this book?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- What were the most important events in the story?
- Which of the reindeer was your favorite? Why?
- Why didn’t the reindeer come when Santa jingled the bells, blew the all-call horn, and hollered?
- If the story had a sequel, what do you think it would be about?
Writing–Now that you know Santa’s story, what other holiday people/creatures do you think would have a similarly interesting story? Select the one that appeals to you most and write–or draw–that story any way you choose. Who’s the main character? What problem are they facing? Why are they telling their story? How will their story turn out? Create that story and see how it goes. Consider sharing it with a friend or family member.
Craft–With an adult’s help, try some of the following reindeer-themed crafts:
- 3D Paper Reindeer–This video shows how to make a super-fun project.
- Bottle Cap Reindeer–So simple you don’t even need directions. But these are cute, cute, cute.
- Candy Cane Reindeer–Easy, fun, and tasty too!
- Clothespin Reindeer–Can be done in under 10 minutes.
- Magic Reindeer Food–Comes with a sample poem to go with it.
- Rudolph Gift Bag–Easy and simple.
Further Reading–Want to read other books about Santa? (Click on the book cover for more information on any of these titles!)

Educational Activites: Snow Globe Wishes by Erin Dealey

On October 21, 2019July 13, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

Snow Globe Wishes
Author: Erin Dealey
Illustrator: Claire Shorrock
Sleeping Bear Press
15 September 2019
32 pages

The book description from Goodreads: “As the worst snow storm of the year rolls in, one family hunkers down together in a cozy blanket fort for the night. A little girl makes a wish on a snow globe and, in the morning, the sun rises on a winter wonderland–beckoning all outside. And what if, on this snow-filled day, families shake their busy lives and everyone goes out to play? A lyrical holiday story about wishes and community and snow–lots and lots of snow.”

Need some reviews of Snow Globe Wishes?

As a bonus, here’s the book trailer for Snow Globe Wishes.

Educational Activities inspired by Snow Globe Wishes by Erin Dealey:

Before Reading–From looking at the front and back cover:
- What time of year is it?
- Why does the girl with the snowglobe seem so happy?
- Where and when does this story appear to take place?
- The back cover features three lines of text. How do these words prepare you for the story?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- Which of the family’s indoor activities seemed most enjoyable?
- What are “snow globe wishes”?
- When everyone listens, what do they hear?
- Did the story end the way you imagined?
- Go back and revisit the pictures in this book. Which of them is your favorite? Why?
Writing–Have you ever been in a situation where the power has gone out? Write a list of your things you could do with your family to pass the time when you can’t turn on the TV, play video games, or even use the lights! How many can options can you think of?
Crafts–With an adult’s help, try some of the following winter-themed crafts:
- DIY Snow Globe–This craft requires an adult’s help for sure, but they’re not THAT hard to make. And wow, do they look good.
- Easy Snow Globe–Gather the ingredients and make your own snow globe. How cool is that?
- Ice Ornaments–Cheap, simple, and terrific to look at. These only work if you live in an area that gets freezing temperatures, though. Sorry, Florida and Texas fans!
- Melted Snowman–This craft has a few more steps than some, but the result is worth it. Loads of fun.
- Playdough Snowman–The no-cook dough recipe has a special ingredient to make the whites really stand out. Add glitter to create a frosty sparkle.
- Three-dimensional Snowflakes–Simple, pretty, and an inexpensive hit with kids.
Further Reading–Want to find some other terrific picture books about snow? (Click on the book cover for more information on any of these titles!)

Educational Activities: Superbuns!: Kindness Is Her Superpower by Diane Kredensor

On September 16, 2019July 13, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

Superbuns!: Kindness Is Her Superpower
Author: Diane Kredensor
Illustrator: Diane Kredensor
Aladdin
2 July 2019
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Some superheroes can leap tall buildings in a single bound, some can crawl up a wall, some grow wolfsharp claws, and some have superhuman speed. And Superbuns? Her superpower is being kind. Super kind. She can’t help but be kind: watering a neighbor’s daisies; helping a friend cross the street; feeding a hungry goldfish.

Superbuns’ older sister Blossom is a super know-it-all who doesn’t believe kindness is a superpower. Not one bit. And all this kindness is slowing them down on their way to Grammy’s house, where a yummy carrot cobbler awaits.

But the sisters are being followed by a little fox, and when Blossom learns the fox is not after their cobbler but is lost, she discovers kindness really is a superpower after all.”

Need some reviews of Superbuns!: Kindness Is Her Superpower?

As a bonus, here’s an interview with Diane Kredensor at Geek Mom.

Educational Activities inspired by Superbuns!: Kindness Is Her Superpower by Diane Kredensor:

Before Reading–From looking at the front and back cover:
- What type of creature is Superbuns?
- Why does Superbuns seem so happy?
- Where and when does this story seem to take place?
- On the back cover is Blossom. What do we know about her?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- Which of Blossom’s facts interest you the most?
- What type of cobbler/pie/dessert would YOU take to Grammy’s?
- What type of relationship do the sisters (Superbuns and Blossom) have?
- Why is Superbuns so scared of Miss Fox at first? Why does that change?
- Go back and revisit the pictures in this book. Which of them is your favorite? Why?
Writing–Try your hand at creating your own superhero story about a character with a power that isn’t so … well … super! What IS that power? How does the character use it to help people? What type of “villain” might your story have? What’s the confrontation/conflict between the “villain” and the superhero? How does it all turn out in the end?
Craft–With an adult’s help, try some of the following bunny-themed crafts:
- Bunny Bath Bombs–This craft requires quite a few ingredients, but the end result is worth it. Good CLEAN fun! 🙂
- Egg Carton Bunny–This one’s easy enough for preschoolers.
- Origami Bunny–You need special paper, but nothing more!
- Popsicle Stick Bunny–This one needs cutting and gluing. Add googly eyes for extra fun.
- Tissue Box Bunny–Cute as can be, though it needs a bit more measuring and cutting than some other projects.
Further Reading–Want to know about more books that showcase superheroes of all types? (Click on the book cover for more information on any of these titles!)

Educational Activities: Pirates Don’t Go to Kindergarten! by Lisa Robinson

On August 19, 2019July 13, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

Pirates Don’t Go to Kindergarten!
Author: Lisa Robinson
Illustrator: Eda Kaban
Two Lions
1 August 2019
32 pages

Goodreads Synopsis: “Pirate Emma is about to start kindergarten! But Emma’s not so sure she’s ready for a new captain and crew. Especially since Cap’n Chu—the roughest, toughest, awesomest preschool cap’n ever—is right down the hall. So Emma decides to head back to the preschool ship to see if she can stir up a mutiny against kindergarten! Is that what she really wants? Or does she just miss her beloved Cap’n Chu? Batten down the hatches, mateys, because the first day of school is going to be stormy!”

Need some reviews of Pirates Don’t Go to Kindergarten?

Christy’s Cozy Corners

Cover2Cover

Kirkus

Publisher’s Weekly

Youth Services Book Review

And for a bonus, here’s a short interview with the book’s author and illustrator at Tara Lazar’s fine blog.

Educational Activities inspired by Pirates Don’t Go to Kindergarten! by Lisa Robinson:

Before Reading–From looking at the front and back cover:
- Where and when does this story seem to take place? What evidence do you see?
- What do you already know about pirates?
- If pirates don’t go to kindergarten, where DO they go?
- What do you imagine the kids on the back cover are saying to each other?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- Which classroom appeals to you most–the pirate room or the space room?
- What do you think Pirate Emma missed most about preschool?
- Go back and revisit the pictures in this book. Which of them is your favorite? Why?
- How satisfied are you with the ending? Does Emma seem like she’ll be happy from now on?
Writing–Try your hand at creating your own first-day-of-school story. Tell it from your own experiences or make up a character like Pirate Emma who is having a hard time with the new situation. What kind of challenges might your main character face? How will they react when things don’t go as expected? What does your main character miss most about their old teacher/class? Will your story end on a happy note, a sad note, or something else entirely?
Craft–With an adult’s help, try some of the following pirate-themed crafts:
- “Exploding” Treasure Chest–Never considered how science fits into the world of pirates? Wonder no more! Let the fizzing (spoiler: it fizzes vs explodes) and the fun begin.
- Handprint Pirate–Could be a big mess–what hand-painting isn’t? But it’s something the kids will really enjoy.
- Pirate Ball Toss Game–Relatively easy to create, and it’s a cool addition to any pirate-themed party.
- Pirates’ Number Gold–Requires a bit of adult help and more supplies than normal, but the results are pretty darn cool!
- Toilet Roll Pirate and Parrot–These cuties are easy to make and look terrific.
- Treasure Maps–Why not use those leftover paper grocery bags for something fun like a treasure map?
Further Reading–Want more books that showcase pirates of one type or another? (Click on the book cover for more information on any of these titles!)