Franklin and the Gecko Games

Franklin the Turtle and Beaver both want to be the summer caretaker for Gordon, their club's pet gecko. So, to determine who would make the best “gecko-sitter,” their friends decide to hold a competition of some special “Gecko Games” to test their skills and knowledge. They both try their hardest, and it's a close challenge, but in the end Franklin wins two out of three games. Franklin is so excited he'll be taking Gordon home! That is, until he notices Beaver's reaction. Beaver looks so sad and disappointed, and Franklin doesn't “feel like a winner at all.” Is there any way Franklin and Beaver can both come out ahead? Part of the picture book series based on the 3D-animated television show Franklin and Friends, this book offers children a model for dealing with an uncomfortable situation. Here, after thinking about the fact that he already has a pet at home while Beaver doesn't, Franklin realizes the job is more important to Beaver than to him, so he gives it to Beaver. This is a wonderful reminder of something many children instinctively know --- giving really can be better than receiving. It works beautifully for a character education lesson on compassion, caring or kindness. The idea of choosing who would be the most qualified gecko-sitter for the job instead of merely picking a favorite friend also offers a terrific lesson on fairness.