Summer of the Monkeys

Summer of the Monkeys
Grades 3-5

The last thing a fourteen-year-old boy expects to find along an old Ozark river bottom is a tree full of monkeys. Jay Berry Lee's grandpa had an explanation, of course--as he did for most things. The monkeys had escaped from a traveling circus, and there was a handsome reward in store for anyone who could catch them. Grandpa said there wasn't any animal that couldn't be caught somehow, and Jay Berry started out believing him . .

But by the end of the "summer of the monkeys," Jay Berry Lee had learned a lot more than he ever bargained for--and not just about monkeys. He learned about faith, and wishes coming true, and knowing what it is you really want. He even learned a little about growing up . . .

Activity One

As the story unfolds, Jay Berry will try many things to capture the monkeys. Describe and illustrate at least two things he did to try and catch them. Tell me how they turned out for Jay Berry. Your illustrations and descriptions should take up a whole sheet of paper. You may also create a picture on your computer if you would like.

Activity Two

Where does the story take place? What is the time period? What is life like for Jay Berry and his family? Thinking of all of these questions, create a diorama of what you think the setting was like. It needs to include Jay Berry's home as well as the characters that are in the story. You may use a shoebox or something similar to make your diorama in. If you would rather create a picture on your computer, you can do that as well. Be creative with your design.

Activity Three

Summer of the Monkeys was made into a movie in 1998. Either watch it on YouTube (it's in different sections), or get a copy of it from Mrs. Jack. After watching the movie, compare the differences between the movie and the book. Which do you like better, and why? Your writing should be at least half a page long.