A Book, Too, Can Be a Star
What’s inside...
An inspiring picture book biography of beloved author Madeleine L'Engle and the making of A Wrinkle in Time. Written by Madeleine's granddaughter Charlotte Jones Voiklis and bestselling picture-book author Jennifer Adams, A Book, Too, Can Be a Star follows the life of renowned creator Madeleine L'Engle. From a young age, Madeleine was captivated by the stars and books, which fueled her imagination and her big questions about life and her place in the universe. These passions led her to write and share her own stories, though she wondered if others would see the wonder she found in the world. This book is an encouragement for children to lead a creative and inquisitive life.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Madeline L'Engle
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to make the choices they did in the story?
How do you feel about the way the story ended? What would you have done differently if you were one of the characters?
Can you think of a time when you faced a similar challenge to one in the book? What did you do?
What do you think is the most important message the author is trying to convey in this book?
Who was your favorite character and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, acknowledging their responses without judgment to foster open communication.
Draw parallels between the book’s themes and real-life situations your child may encounter to help them relate to the characters and deepen their understanding.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different choices the characters could have made, enhancing their critical thinking and creativity.
Discuss the moral or lesson of the book, and why it’s important in their everyday life, reinforcing the educational value of the story.
Keep the conversation light and enjoyable, using moments from the book to share personal experiences or family values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The characters in the book often face challenges that require them to understand and share the feelings of others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize emotions and perspectives different from their own, fostering better relationships and social interactions.
Example Lesson: The Power of Imagination
Explanation: The story showcases how creativity and imagination can lead to solutions and new ideas.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to use their imagination to solve problems and explore the world creatively, enhancing cognitive development and innovative thinking.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book overcome obstacles through determination and resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of perseverance when facing difficulties in school or personal life.
Example Lesson: Importance of Literacy
Explanation: Reading and books are central themes, highlighting the role of literacy in gaining knowledge and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of reading regularly, which improves language skills and academic performance.
Example Lesson: Cooperation and Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters must work together to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: It teaches children the significance of cooperating in group settings like classrooms or sports, promoting harmonious interactions and collective problem-solving.