A House Board Book
#7 of 3 in Mouse Books Series
on Goodreads (633)
What’s inside...
Caldecott Medal winner and #1 New York Times bestselling author Kevin Henkes explores themes of family, community, and belonging in his board book, A House. This interactive book introduces young readers to shapes, numbers, the weather, and parts of a house through engaging questions and repetitive text, complemented by remarkable illustrations. A House is celebrated for its simplicity, interactive seek-and-find elements, and brilliant design, making it an appealing choice for young children, emerging readers, and families seeking a shared reading experience. Praised by critics for its enchanting simplicity and brilliance, this book is a timeless treasure that turns a house into a home with the return of its family.
Discussion points
What kind of house would you like to live in? Why?
How do you think the house feels when it's full of people?
Can you name some things that make a house feel like a home?
What do you think makes the house in the book special?
If our house could talk, what do you think it would say?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their ideal home, using their imagination to detail the colors, shapes, and sizes.
Discuss the emotions associated with different parts of a home, such as the warmth of a kitchen or the coziness of a bedroom.
Ask your child to draw their favorite room in the house and explain what makes it special to them.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by comparing events in the book with events in your own home.
Use expressive gestures and voice modulations to make the story more engaging and relate the house’s characteristics to emotions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: The story illustrates the warmth and security that a family home provides, emphasizing the value of a loving family environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and cherish the support and love they receive from their family members, fostering strong family bonds.
Example Lesson: Sense of Belonging
Explanation: Through the depiction of different rooms and their purposes, the book reinforces the idea that there is a special place for everyone within their home.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand their integral role in their home and family, enhancing their self-esteem and sense of security.
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: The book can include scenes where family members are involved in household tasks, teaching children about responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by participating in age-appropriate chores around their house, learning accountability and teamwork.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: Describing various aspects of a house may also inspire imaginative thinking about their own home spaces.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to engage creatively in their play and daily activities, using their home environment as a creative backdrop.