The Barnabus Project: questions to ask and activities to try
Barnabus is half mouse, half elephant, a Failed Project hidden away. The Barnabus Project is a stunning picture book about misfits, imperfection and freedom.
What age is it for? The Barnabus Project is best for ages 5–8. Good for: Being a misfit, and dreaming of freedom.
The Barnabus Project (The Fan Brothers)
- Age
- 5-8
- Best for
- Being a misfit, and dreaming of freedom
Pore over the detailed pictures. Talk about why Barnabus was called a failure, and whether that was fair.
What it helps with
- Feeling imperfect
- Friendship among misfits
- Freedom and courage
- Teamwork
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.
- “Who is Barnabus?”
- “Why was he hidden away?”
- “What did he dream of?”
- “How did his friends help?”
- “Was he a failure?”
- “What makes something perfect?”
5-minute activities to try together
Mix-up animal
Invent and draw a half-and-half animal and give it a name.
Misfit strengths
List what's great about each misfit in the book.
Free printables: The Barnabus Project 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
The Midnight Panther (Poonam Mistry)
- Best for
- Feeling different, and finding your place
- Age
- 4-8
Elmer (David McKee)
- Best for
- Children who feel different or want to fit in
- Age
- 2-6
Something Else (Kathryn Cave and Chris Riddell)
- Best for
- Being left out, and then leaving someone else out
- Age
- 3-6
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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.