Groundhog’s Dilemma

Groundhog’s Dilemma
A Picture Book
By Kristen Remenar
Illustrated by Matt Faulkner
Published by Charlesbridge Publishing

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ABOUT THE BOOK
To see or Not to See, THAT (of course) is the question!

After Groundhog announces six more weeks of winter, half his animal friends are disappointed, while the other half are excited. Each animal asks Groundhog to make his prediction in their favor the following year. Rather than being truthful about the fact that he just “calls it like he sees it,” he leads them to believe he can control the weather, accepting their gifts of food and favor. On the next Groundhog Day, he finally admits he made promises he couldn’t keep because he was trying to please everyone and makes amends.

Matt Faulkner’s rich illustrations are packed with hilarious details that will delight readers of all ages. No matter what weather the Groundhog predicts, curling up with this fun book is a great way to spend the winter.

RESOURCES
You are welcome to download, print and reproduce these activities for the book:

The Groundhog’s Dilemma: Puppets
Color and cut out the characters to retell this story or a story of your own. Download & Print

The Groundhog’s Dilemma: Comprehension
Each animal tries to persuade Groundhog to see or not see his shadow. Show your comprehension of the story by answering questions about the animal’s persuasion.
Download & Print

The Groundhog’s Dilemma: Letter Writing
What do you prefer, a longer winter or an earlier spring? Write a letter to Groundhog. Give at least 3 reasons to persuade Groundhog. Share your letter and Groundhog will write back!
Download & Print

The Groundhog’s Dilemma Fun Facts
Read five fun facts about Groundhog’s Day and research five of your own!
Download & Print

REVIEWS
“Faulkner’s anthropomorphic animals and vibrant colors recall Uncle Wiggly, and the illustrations are packed with humorous details that repay rereadings. Remenar’s graceful prose and the subtlety of her message, pitched to older preschoolers and early-elementary students, are a good match. A sly and funny take on truth-telling and friendship.”
–Kirkus Reviews

“Faulkner’s highly detailed illustrations complement Remenar’s tale, offering the reader a wealth of added elements to observe while they ponder the weighty story. This is a great starting point for difficult discussions about friendship, honesty, acceptance, and doing what’s right. All’s well that ends well in this lovely story. Recommended for public libraries, elementary classrooms, and home collections.”
–Children’s Literature

“The colorful pencil, watercolor, and gouache illustrations, which take up the full pages and are quite detailed, keep the story interesting and work to bring the forest animals to life. Whimsical details, such as the baseball stadium named “Wiggley Field,” will keep adults entertained as well…VERDICT A nicely illustrated, satisfactory story that meets a need for Groundhog Day titles.”
–School Library Journal