Why Geronimo Stilton Is Great For Kids (3)

This is the third in a series of five articles discussing the benefits of Geronimo Stilton Books for emerging readers. 

In the first part of the series we ask the question “Who is Geronimo Stilton and Why Is He So Popular?” and try to answer by beginning to list five reasons why Geronimo Stilton Books are attractive and rewarding reads for kids.

The first reason was the series’ nontraditional use of fonts and colors in the text. The second reason was the dynamic and cartoon-like illustrations featured in the Geronimo Stilton books.

The 3rd reason why Geronimo Stilton books are great for emerging readers is the use of non-fiction factfiles to add a further level of understanding and depth to the stories.

3: The Fact Files & Information Pages

Throughout most of the later Geronimo Stilton books there are areas of the text devoted to communicating informative facts about the locations, events or traditions discussed in the book.  

So for the previously mentioned book Down and Out Down Under there are over 14 pages of background information on Australia, the country and its traditions and history spread throughout the book.

There is a map of the continent, a brief history, information on the wildlife, native aboriginal culture, Uluru and even how to make damper.

As an Australian I found this a wonderful introduction to my country. The background information helps flesh out the story for readers, so when Geronimo visits Uluru there is a greater understanding of how this large rock holds significance for our culture and history. 

It becomes more that just a place or a ‘tourist destination’, but a meaningful location that has history and context.

Likewise when I have read other Geronimo Stilton books I have discovered more about such things as Valentine’s Day, The Olympic Torch, The Race Across America and the traditions of certain tribes in Outer Mongolia. 

To have access to such background information within the book itself, without having to go to an encyclopedia straight away (or the internet) is a wonderful gift and an integral part of the success of the series.

The next part of this series can be found here.

Tags: Emerging Readers, Geronimo Stilton, Geronimo Stilton Books, Literacy, Visual Literacy