The Climbers: questions to ask and activities to try
Lonely Alma befriends a frightened bear cub, but the town is scared of bears. The Climbers is a moving picture book about friendship, fear and courage.
What age is it for? The Climbers is best for ages 5–8. Good for: Friendship with someone others fear.
The Climbers (Ali Standish and Alette Straathof)
- Age
- 5-8
- Best for
- Friendship with someone others fear
Read it and pause when the town turns on Star Bear. Talk about fear of the unknown.
What it helps with
- Loneliness and friendship
- Fear of the unknown
- Courage
- Standing up for a friend
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.
- “Why was Alma lonely?”
- “What did her uncle say about the forest?”
- “Who did she find?”
- “How did the town react?”
- “What did Alma do?”
- “Why are people scared of what they don’t know?”
5-minute activities to try together
Forest map
Draw the forest beyond Alma's town and what's really there.
Brave friend
Talk about a time you stood up for a friend.
Free printables: The Climbers 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 Girl and the Dinosaur (Hollie Hughes and Sarah Massini)
- Best for
- A lonely girl and a magical friend
- Age
- 3-7
Lost and Found (Oliver Jeffers)
- Best for
- Loneliness, and the friendships we don't expect
- Age
- 3-7
Beegu (Alexis Deacon)
- Best for
- Feeling lost and unwelcome, and being welcomed
- 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.