Highly Recommend to Teachers!
As an elementary school teacher I would definitely recommend Lulu and the Hunger Monster! This beautifully written story is developmentally appropriate for ages TK and up. As a read aloud it offers rich opportunities to discuss empathy, friendship, self-care, childhood hunger, speaking up for yourself, and how to access local resources. Erik Talkin was able to write about childhood hunger in a way that is empowering and affirming to children who might be able to relate to Lulu, while simultaneously educating students about the invisible impact hunger can have on a child’s life. I teach at a school where many families rely on the local food bank, and my students feel seen and validated by Lulu’s experiences in this story.