As a storm approaches, Grandma finds her granddaughter hiding under the bed. But the girl bravely helps gather ingredients outside for Thunder Cake, and by the time the thunder starts booming, she’s not afraid anymore.
Thunder Cake
Discuss the Book
Storm Is Coming
Pages 1–7
- Important Moment: Grandma sees a storm coming, then finds her granddaughter, who is afraid of thunder, hiding under the bed.
- Ask and Share: What does Grandma notice in the sky? Where is the girl? How might she feel about storms? How do you feel about storms?
From Lightning to Thunder
Pages 8–11
- Important Moment: Grandma teaches the girl to predict how many miles away the storm is. She says they must get busy gathering ingredients for Thunder Cake before the storm arrives.
- Ask and Share: What does Grandma teach the girl about thunder and lightning? Why does she do this? When you’re afraid, what helps you with your fear?
Getting Braver
Pages 12–23
- Important Moment: As they gather ingredients, Grandma asks the girl to do things that are a little scary, including walk through the woods, go into the dark shed, and climb the trellis.
- Ask and Share: Can you remember three things the girl does that are a little scary? Is there something you have to do or somewhere you have to go that you think is scary? Why?
Afraid No More
Pages 24–31
- Important Moment: Grandma points out all the brave things the girl did to help make the cake. When the girl realizes she is brave, she’s not afraid of thunder anymore.
- Ask and Share: What does Grandma help the girl realize about herself? What is a way that you are brave? Who else is brave in your life? Why do you think this person is brave?