A Message for Grandma
on Goodreads (20)
What’s inside...
This is a gentle story about Alice, a young girl living in western Pennsylvania in the 1890s. Alice's mother sends her with a message to her German-speaking Grandma on the other side of the family farm. Alice speaks only English. As she walks across the farm repeating the message so that she will remember, she mangles it more with each new experience. Happily she gets it right at Grandma's house. Carol Breckenridge is the author and illustrator of the story. She is an artist, illustrator, and art therapist with a background as an elementary school teacher. She has worked as an art therapist in mental health centers and supervises art therapy interns at Ursuline Colleges. Carol sells her art through BreckWorks on Etsy.com and lives in Shaker Heights, Ohio with her husband and schnauzer.
Age
5-7
Length
36 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they received the special message from Grandma?
What are some ways you can show someone you love them, even if they are far away?
Why is it important to stay connected with family members?
What would you have done differently if you were the main character in the book?
How did the story make you feel, and what was your favorite part?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they think the book will be about based on the title and cover.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the characters and events as you read. Validate their feelings and share your perspectives.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask predictive questions, such as 'What do you think will happen next?'
After reading, connect the story to your child’s life by discussing similar experiences they might have had.
Use the book as an opportunity to discuss the value of communication and relationships in family life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy
Explanation: Throughout the story, the protagonist learns to understand and share the feelings of their grandmother, who lives far away.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy by recognizing emotions in others and offering comfort or help, fostering stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of communication
Explanation: The book highlights the significance of staying in touch with loved ones through letters, teaching children the power of words in expressing feelings.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to express their thoughts and maintain connections with family and friends, even over long distances.
Example Lesson: Creativity and self-expression
Explanation: The main character crafts a unique, heartfelt message for their grandmother, showcasing creativity.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination in crafting personal gifts or messages, enhancing their creative skills.
Example Lesson: Patience and anticipation
Explanation: As the character waits for a response from the grandmother, the story teaches patience and the excitement of waiting for something important.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the value of patience and the joy that comes with anticipating responses from acts of kindness.