The Smart Cookie
by Jory John
The Smart Cookie is a humorous and heartwarming story about a cookie who worries she isn't as smart as everyone else. Through her journey, she discovers that being smart can mean many different things and that everyone has unique strengths.
Reading Tips for Story Explorers
Find a comfortable space to read together
Slow down and enjoy the illustrations
Ask and answer questions together
Make reading part of your routine - bedtime is a great time for reading
Use these prompts to encourage deeper thinking with your children:
"Tell me more, why do you think that?"
"How do you know that?"
"Interesting, did you notice anything else?"
Phonemic Awareness
When introducing the book, share the title and notice these phonemic elements:
When introducing the book, share the title and notice these phonemic elements:
The word “Smart” in the title begins with the letter Ss. This letter says /s/, like silly and sand. Point to the letter and say the sound together: /s/, /s/, /s/. Brainstorm other words that begin with the sound /s/ with your child (sandwich, slide, seat).
Ask the children to say the word after you. Show them the cover of the book and have them read the word out loud with you as you point under each word.
Vocabulary
smart: Being good at learning, thinking, solving problems, or understanding things
worry: To feel nervous or concerned about something
talent: A special skill or something you do well
compare: To look at how two things are alike or different
unique: One of a kind; special in your own way
confidence: Believing in yourself and your abilities
Questions to Discuss
Why did the Smart Cookie think she wasn't smart?
Have you ever felt like someone else was better at something than you? How did that feel?
What are some different ways people can be smart?
What special talents or strengths does the Smart Cookie discover about herself?
What is something you are good at that makes you proud?
What lesson do you think the author wants readers to learn from this story?
Let's Play
Invite children and caregivers to create a poster titled "Ways I'm Smart." Together, draw or write 3–5 things the child does well, such as building, drawing, helping others, remembering facts, telling stories, solving puzzles, or being kind. Encourage caregivers to share examples they have noticed.
When finished, have the child explain their poster and celebrate the many different ways people can be smart. This activity reinforces self-confidence and the book's message that intelligence comes in many forms.
