In our previous blog article we listed a few links to craft projects featuring wolves that we found around the web. We also had a free download of a wolf paper bag puppet pattern.
We are continuing the wolf theme with a list of books that we thought would be interesting and fun to pair with a wolf 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 Wolves
Wolf Camp by Andrea Zuill is a humorous take on dog’s experience at camp. A pampered dog decides to return to his roots by going to Wolf Camp to live as a wolf. With his new found friends at camp, he learns to overcome fear and master new skills, even while being a little homesick. Funny dialogue and even funnier illustrations make this a fun book to read. For ages 4-8, preschool to 2nd grade.
The True Story of the Three Little Pigs turns the story of 3 Little Pigs upside down. Alexander T. Wolf tells his side of the story of encountering with the pigs. This is a hilarious fractured fairy tale that gives the wolf’s perspective. The illustrations add to the wackiness of the story. Written by Jon Scieszka and illustrated by Lane Smith. For ages 5-8, kindergarten to 3rd grade.
The Girl and the Wolf by Katherena Vermette and illustrated by Julie Flett is a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood with a First Nation spin. It’s about a little girl who discovers that she has strength within herself. She only needed a little help from the wolf to figure it out. Instead of panicking when she realizes she is lost, she listens to the wolf who encourages her to relax and take a deep breath before trying her next course of action. For ages 4-7, preschool to kindergarten.
National Geographic: Wolves is a Level 2 reader by Laura Marsh. It is for ages 5-8, kindergarten to 3rd grade. Great photographs and information which is not too detailed for young readers. Even though it is rated for independent readers, younger kids would enjoy the pictures and having the book read to them.
Free Download of a Wolf Felt Hand Puppet Pattern
Don’t have the time to sew a puppet? Need a puppet fast? We have a free download for a wolf 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 with a moving mouth and make expressions? We’ve got the pattern!
Need a puppet that can talk and make facial expressions? You can sew one with our Wolf Puppet Sewing Pattern. The pattern is available as a digital download so you can start sewing immediately. We recommend using fleece and felt fabrics because they are inexpensive, readily available from craft stores, washable and easy to sew. Customers tell us how easy our step by step patterns (with lots of pictures) are to follow especially after watching the video tutorials. In fact you can watch our free video tutorial on how to sew the wolf puppet right now!
What our customers are saying:
“Very detailed step-by-step instructions with color photos. Can’t wait to get all the supplies and make this puppet.”
“The puppets turn out really well and are a joy to use!”