Skunk and Badger: questions to ask and activities to try
Badger likes living alone, until Skunk moves in. Skunk and Badger is a classic-feeling tale of an unlikely friendship, illustrated by Jon Klassen.
What age is it for? Skunk and Badger is best for ages 7–10. Good for: An unlikely friendship between very different housemates.
Skunk and Badger (Amy Timberlake and Jon Klassen)
- Age
- 7-10
- Best for
- An unlikely friendship between very different housemates
Read a chapter at a time. Talk about how Badger changes.
What it helps with
- Unlikely friendships
- Sharing space
- Changing your mind about someone
- Chapter books
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What does Badger like?”
- “Who arrived?”
- “How did Badger feel?”
- “What did Skunk do differently?”
- “How did they become friends?”
- “Who has surprised you as a friend?”
5-minute activities to try together
House rules
Write house rules that would suit both Skunk and Badger.
Rock work
Collect interesting rocks and label them like Badger.
Free printables: Skunk and Badger worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Rabbit's Bad Habits (Julian Gough and Jim Field)
- Best for
- Friendship, sharing and a rabbit with bad habits
- Age
- 6-8
Croc and Bird (Alexis Deacon)
- Best for
- Brothers and sisters who are very different
- Age
- 3-7
Jasper and Scruff (Nicola Colton)
- Best for
- An unlikely friendship, in a funny early chapter book
- Age
- 5-8
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.