A Happy Place
What’s inside...
A Happy Place is a heartwarming tale by Britta Teckentrup that explores themes of contentment and the importance of finding one's own 'happy place' in the world. The book takes readers on a magical, moonlit adventure, inspiring children's imaginations with peek-through pages, cutaways, and enchanting illustrations. The journey follows a tiny star and invites readers to dance with a host of animals, leaving them to wonder if it's all a dream.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Harriet Kilpatrick
Sabrina
Kimmy
Parth
Cleo
Wyn Connor
Discussion points
What made the place in the book a happy place for the characters?
How do you think the characters felt when they were in their happy place?
Can you think of a place that makes you feel happy like the characters in the book? Why does it make you feel that way?
What can we do to make more places happy places for others?
If you could add something to the happy place in the book, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their happy place in detail, prompting them to think about the senses: what they see, hear, and feel in that place.
Relate personal stories of your happy places, drawing parallels to the book to help deepen your child's connection to the theme.
After reading, ask your child to draw or create their version of a happy place, using crafts or building blocks, which can help them express creativity and solidify their understanding of the book's themes.
Discuss the importance of emotional well-being and how having a 'happy place' can contribute to it, reinforcing the book’s message.
Use the characters' experiences in the book as a stepping stone to talk about empathy and understanding others' feelings about their happy places.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: In 'A Happy Place', the main character learns to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering a sense of community and support.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their daily interactions, helping them build stronger relationships and be more understanding towards others.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: The story exemplifies persistence as the character faces and overcomes various challenges to reach the happy place.
Real-World Application: This instills a mindset in children to not easily give up when faced with difficulties, whether in school tasks or personal goals.
Example Lesson: The power of imagination
Explanation: Britta Teckentrup beautifully illustrates how imagination can create a personal sanctuary that is comforting and inspiring.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their creativity as a tool for emotional expression and problem-solving in their everyday life.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-discovery
Explanation: As the journey in the book promotes introspection, it helps underline the relevance of self-discovery in finding one's own 'happy place'.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand themselves better and make choices that align with their true interests and values.