The Baddies

What do our readers think of The Baddies? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy the funny rhymes, silly baddies and lively pictures, and many children like hearing the story again and again. Children also respond warmly to the brave girl and the cheerful way she deals with characters who try to scare her.

What does the Pageticker team say about The Baddies?

We love The Baddies' lively rhyme, comic baddies and Axel Scheffler’s expressive illustrations, which give children plenty to spot and enjoy on repeated readings. It is a funny, reassuring story about courage, kindness and outwitting bullies, although some more sensitive children may find the ghost, witch and troll a little spooky. A lovely choice for shared reading, especially for children who enjoy dramatic read-alouds.

Genres

What is The Baddies about?

Meet the Baddies—a ghost, a witch, and a troll—who love causing mischief and argue over who is most wicked. When a brave little girl moves into a nearby cottage, the Baddies plot to frighten her away. But she surprises them with her cleverness, proving that courage comes in all sizes and that being nasty doesn't always win. A hilarious and lively tale full of fun and surprises from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

About the author

Julia Donaldson is a much-loved British author who has written many wonderful books for children. She is best known for creating 'The Gruffalo', a story about a clever mouse and a magical creature. Julia often works with illustrator Axel Scheffler to bring her fun and imaginative stories to life.

Discussion ideas around The Baddies

Being brave: What makes the little girl brave, and how does her bravery differ from being big or strong?

The baddies’ behaviour: Why do the ghost, witch and troll want to seem wicked, and what might they be trying to prove?

Kindness and cleverness: How does the story show that kindness and clever thinking can be more powerful than nastiness?

Looks can be misleading: What do the pictures and the story tell us about judging someone by how frightening they look?

Standing up to bullies: What could you do if someone tried to frighten or boss you, and which ideas from the story might help?