Ask Einstein! - Level 25-26

In Ask Einstein!, Henry writes a humorous letter to his teacher Miss Wilson to explain why he hasn't completed his homework. The letter vividly describes the antics of his family's chaotic cat, Einstein, through a series of disastrous and exaggerated events. The book's format is a personal recount presented as a letter, enriched with tall tale elements, caricature illustrations, footnotes, labels, and speech bubbles that add visual humour and context. Clever puns and playful language, such as calling the cat œEinstein, enhance the comedic tone. This text provides excellent opportunities for exploring the features of humorous writing, interpreting illustrations, and understanding narrative voice. The book also invites readers to predict outcomes and practise expressive reading aloud with attention to punctuation and phrasing. Themes of humour, pets, and relationships are skilfully woven throughout, making this an engaging read.

Educational Benefits:

• Encourages comprehension of humour and figurative language
• Develops skills in interpreting text features and illustrations
• Supports expressive reading and oral fluency with punctuation focus
• Fosters predicting outcomes based on narrative clues

Classroom Ideas:

• Write humorous letters or recounts inspired by personal experiences
• Discuss the use of puns and jokes within the text
• Create comic strips using speech bubbles and labels
• Practice reading aloud with attention to expression and timing

Information:

• Ages: 9-11 years
• Reading Level: 25-26 (Emerald)
• Dimensions: Standard paperback size approx. 210 x 150 mm