A Different Pond
Fiction Picture Books Series
What’s inside...
A Different Pond is a Caldecott Honor Book that tells the unforgettable story of a young boy, Bao Phi, and his father, who wake up early to fish for food in a small pond in Minneapolis. This simple event of a fishing trip is a backdrop for a powerful exploration of the relationship between father and son, and between their present life in America and their roots in Vietnam. The narrative, written by acclaimed poet Bao Phi, is enriched with evocative art by graphic novelist Thi Bui, making it a must-read that captures the nuances of cultural transition and familial bonds.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the boy feels when he goes fishing with his father?
What do you think the pond symbolizes in the story?
Why is it important for the family to catch fish?
How do the illustrations help tell the story?
What did you learn about the boy's family and their culture?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by sharing your own impressions of the book and ask your child what they found most memorable.
Explore the emotions depicted in the book; discuss each character's feelings and how they might relate to those emotions.
Ask your child to compare their own family traditions with those shown in the book to foster a deeper understanding of cultural practices.
Encourage your child to describe the setting and atmosphere of the story using descriptive words, enhancing their vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Discuss the moral of the story to reinforce values like resilience, hard work, and family bonds.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of hard work
Explanation: The story showcases a father and son waking up early to fish for their family’s meal, highlighting the father's dedication to providing for his family.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working hard and the responsibilities of contributing to family welfare, which can be applied in helping with household chores or in their dedication to their studies.
Example Lesson: Cultural heritage and family traditions
Explanation: The bond between the boy and his father is strengthened through the cultural practice of fishing, reminiscent of their life in Vietnam.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and take pride in their own family traditions and cultural heritage, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
Example Lesson: Economic realities and empathy
Explanation: The family’s economic struggles are portrayed in a respectful way that can help children understand different socio-economic realities.
Real-World Application: This insight can help foster empathy and understanding towards peers who might be in different economic situations, promoting inclusiveness.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for nature
Explanation: The serene environment of the pond during the fishing trip presents an opportunity to appreciate the calm and beauty of nature.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to observe and appreciate their natural surroundings, perhaps through activities like birdwatching, gardening, or nature walks.
Example Lesson: Importance of family bonding
Explanation: The quiet moments the father and son share during their fishing trip highlight the importance of spending quality time with family.
Real-World Application: This lesson reminds children and parents to carve out their own special moments together, whether through shared hobbies, reading, or simply talking.