Why Geronimo Stilton Is Great For Kids (5)

This is the last in a series of five articles discussing Why Geronimo Stilton Books are fantastic resources for reluctant and/or emerging readers. 

In the first part of the series we asked the question “Who is Geronimo Stilton and Why Is He So Popular?” and try to answer by outlining 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.
• In our third article we talked about the informative fact-files that add depth and understanding to the locations and concepts touched on in the story.
• The fourth reason why Geronimo Stilton makes a great read for kids is the characters’ humor and optimism.

The 5th but not necessarily final reason why Geronimo Stilton is a great book series for reluctant or emerging readers is the love and bravery demonstrated by Geronimo, his family and friends.

5: The Love And Bravery

Geronimo Stilton books stand out for me as highly recommended chapter books for young readers, not just because of the visual nature of the books but because of their emphasis on friends and family.

If the books were purely dynamic and engaging they would still be great but what has really gotten me hooked on the Geronimo Stilton series is the depth of love between the characters.

It is often demonstrated in the books that Geronimo, his sister Thea and cousin Trap are wildly different personalities. And while they may often point out each other’s weaknesses, sometimes callously, they can also be found regularly reinforcing their love for each other with hugs, physical support and emotional encouragement.

Love and understanding of those who may be different to us is such a rare and important gift to give to young people. But Geronimo and his friends don't just accept and appreciate others, they stick their necks out for them, even if they are strangers.

While Geronimo may be a reluctant adventurer he is often placed in situations where he or his friends are in great peril. It is in these moments that Geronimo’s true nature comes out and its plain to see that he would stick his fur out for a friend in need. Often, during the books he is described as a loyal, reliable, brave friend-a true gentlemouse. 

The double page spread at right is an excerpt from The Mouse Island Marathon and it shows Geronimo saving a fellow contestant from drowning. Geronimo may be a scardey-mouse sometimes but his bravery shines at times when it is really needed.

Whether rescuing strangers from raging rivers (Four Mice Deep In The Jungle) or helping a friend raise money for sick kids by riding across the USA on a bike (Race Across America) Geronimo is the friend we wish we all had and the type of friend we would like to be to others.

It isn’t easy to find books for young male (or female) readers that have not only adventure, humor, great visual attraction as well as true camaraderie, honor and friendship.  
The Geronimo Stilton books have all that and much, much more.

If you haven’t read one yet, take a look for yourself or better yet, buy one for the emerging reader in your life and read it together.  The Geronimo Stilton books are highly recommended for ages 7+ but will be happily perused by even the youngest reader.

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