Leonardo, the Terrible Monster
Leonardo’s failed performance goal gives way to empathy only after he listens to the child he deliberately targeted.
Leonardo, the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems is estimated to take about 4 minutes to read aloud (263 words, 1 sentence a spread). Best for ages 3-6.
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- Estimated read-aloud time
- about 4 minutesEstimated read-aloud time
- Words
- 263Word count
- Sentences per spread
- 1Text density
- Re-read tolerance
- 4/5repeat friendly
- Vocabulary level
- 2/5everyday words
- Best for
- Ages 3-6Age range
Our review
Leonardo cannot scare anyone, so he researches the most vulnerable-looking child and targets Sam. When Sam explains the many reasons he is upset, Leonardo abandons the scare goal and chooses to be a wonderful friend instead.
Pause after Sam’s dense outburst and ask what Leonardo learns that observation alone missed. Beekle searches for a friend through courageous travel; Leonardo first causes harm in pursuit of status, making this the sharper story about listening and changing one’s objective.
Before you buy it
Leonardo chooses Sam because he appears easy to frighten; the eventual friendship does not make that targeting acceptable.
Themes
- monsters
- failing
- friendship
- crying
- humour
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