Dickens & Rumi

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Franklin and the Thunderstorm (Franklin the Turtle)

Paulette Bourgeois; Brenda Clark · 1998

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for Franklin and the Thunderstorm (Franklin the Turtle) by Paulette Bourgeois; Brenda Clark. This book is recommended for ages 4+; content notes include Frightening scenes, Products & advertising; positive qualities include Good role models, Kindness & empathy.

Ages 4+Source checked

Why this age? The story uses simple language and a reassuring emotional arc about an ordinary childhood fear; mild storm tension may need brief reassurance for very sensitive children. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age4+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Products & advertising1/5

Strongest positives

  • Good role models3/5
  • Kindness & empathy3/5
  • Positive messages3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

No commercial branding or product placement.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

The storm itself is depicted as loud and intimidating for the young protagonist, but it is handled in a reassuring manner.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience2/5
Why this rating?

Franklin practices the courage to confront his fear rather than hide from it.

Creativity & curiosity1/5
Why this rating?

Encourages scientific curiosity about weather phenomena.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Explains the science of why thunder happens after lightning in a child-friendly way.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Family members show kindness and support for one another.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

The story emphasizes that it is okay to be afraid and provides practical ways to understand and cope with fear.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Franklin's parents are supportive and patient, modeling effective guidance for their child.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Which character was the best role model, and what did they do that you admired?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Franklin and the Thunderstorm (Franklin the Turtle) would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Franklin and the Thunderstorm (Franklin the Turtle), and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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