SuitabookFred the (very demanding) Deer
Pépé Smit
- Reading
- Read the pictures as part of the joke, pausing when Fred interrupts or the illustrator appears. Before revealing the ending, ask what change Fred might demand next; afterwards, revisit whether his wishes helped.
- Themes
- Self-expression and control: Fred challenges the illustrator, rejects parts of his situation and attempts to direct what happens in his story. The book appears to playfully explore a character taking control, while leaving open whether every demand is wise or satisfying.
- Belonging and dissatisfaction: Fred initially lives happily in the forest, then says he is bored and wants to visit town, where he notices what others have. The book leaves its stance open to more than one reading.
- Worth knowing
- Fred’s repeated demands and apparent success may invite discussion about the difference between expressing a wish and getting one’s way. The tone is described as silly and playful rather than realistic.