A Home Named Walter
What’s inside...
A home named Walter learns how to heal his broken heart after a family he loves moves away in this poignant picture book about loss and renewal. Walter was a happy home. He loved the bustle and warmth of the family that lived with him. But when they move away, his feelings are hurt. He grows cold and quiet and only wants to be left alone. So when a little girl and her mama move in, Walter is determined to get them out! But in his struggle to do so, Walter may just feel livable again and change how he feels. Chelsea Lin Wallace has written a truly poignant story. With its classic sensibility, paired with Ginnie Hsu's warm and lush illustrations, A Home Named Walter is a special story that will resonate with many readers for years to come.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Walter felt when he was left alone? Have you ever felt the same way?
What makes a home feel like a home to you? Is it the people, the things, or something else?
Why do you think it was important for Walter to be fixed and taken care of?
What does this story teach us about taking care of things or people who are important to us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening when your child discusses their feelings, mirroring their emotions to show understanding.
Encourage your child to draw their version of a 'perfect home' for Walter before discussing what makes a place home for them.
Link the story to personal experiences by asking your child about times they’ve helped someone or something in need and how it made them feel.
Finish your discussion with a creative activity, like building a small model of a home for a favorite toy or character, emphasizing care and creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Change
Explanation: In 'A Home Named Walter', as the main character adjusts to a new home, children learn the importance of embracing change positively.
Real-World Application: This helps children adapt to new situations like moving to a new school or welcoming a new family member.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Compassion
Explanation: The story demonstrates how the characters understand and care for Walter's feelings as he transforms from a bus into a home, teaching the value of empathy.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize emotions in others and respond kindly, fostering better relationships with peers and adults.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The book showcases characters solving problems to make Walter feel more like a home, highlighting the significance of critical thinking and creativity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply problem-solving skills in various settings, such as figuring out how to share toys or completing a difficult task.
Example Lesson: Importance of Home
Explanation: Walter's transformation illustrates the concept of home being more than a physical place, emphasizing emotional security and belonging.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to appreciate their home environment and contribute positively to their family life.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Characters in the book work together to help Walter adjust, demonstrating how collaboration achieves shared goals.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working cooperatively in group settings such as in school projects or team sports.