In our previous blog article we listed a few links to craft projects featuring sharks that we found around the web. We also had a free download of shark paper bag puppet pattern.

We are continuing the shark theme with a list of books that we thought would be interesting and fun to pair with a shark puppet.  We’ve noticed that kids become more engaged during reading when a puppet is used to help bring a book alive.

WHY USE A PUPPET WHILE READING?

• • Kids love puppets.
  • Puppets boost creativity and stimulate kids’ imaginations
  • Sometimes kids feel more comfortable reading to a puppet rather than to an adult
  • A puppet can be used as an impartial character allowing kids to express their true emotions.
  • A puppet made from our patterns is perfect for story time because it is soft and pliable.  It can be stuffed into a small place ready to pop out to engage the kids.  And it is easy to wash!

Books Featuring Sharks

Even though kids are fascinated by sharks, we thought we might have trouble finding age appropriate shark themed books for the younger set. We were so surprised how many there are. And there are a couple of books that are really imaginative.  The following books are some of our favorites.

We love pop-up books and The Very Silly Shark by Jack Tickle is a fun pop up book.  The artwork is amazing and it is so much fun to watch each animal pop up as the pages are turned.  As an added bonus, we learned something about ocean life.


Little Shark (Little Finger Puppet Board Books) is a simple comforting story.  With the cut outs on each page, you can have fun with babies in interactive play with the permanently attached plush finger puppet.  All preschoolers (and adults!) have fun poking their finger into the puppet.


Shark Dog by Ged Anderson has such cute, quirky illustrations to go with the imaginative story of a half-dog and half-shark.   Kids will love the absurd idea.  This book was a huge hit when I read it to 4-5 year olds at a preschool. It’s a fun way to get kids to think outside of the box. Like what would happen if there was a half-kitten and half-Trex?  It’s also a sweet story about returning Shark Dog to his home when he gets homesick.   For ages 4-8 years – Preschool to grade 3.


Scholastic book’s Great White Sharks by Moira Rose Donohue is for readers ages 8-12 – grades 3-5.  The book is very informative.  It has great pictures, lots of facts and a glossary.  It would make a great resource book for reports.  It could be read to younger students.

Free Download of Shark Hand Puppet Pattern

Don’t have the time to sew a puppet?  Need a puppet fast?  We have a free download for a shark hand puppet pattern using felt squares available from craft stores.  The puppet can be made without sewing – all you need is a hot glue gun.

Need a puppet that can talk and make expressions?  You can sew one with our Shark Puppet Sewing Pattern.  The pattern is available as a digital download so you can start sewing immediately. Customers tell us how easy our step by step patterns (with lots of pictures) are to follow especially after watching the video tutorials.  They also say the puppets turn out really well and are a joy to use!