A Strange Place to Call Home
What’s inside...
This book showcases the unique and sometimes bizarre places where various animals choose to live. It explores the adaptability and survival tactics of creatures that make their homes in environments ranging from the ocean depths to the desert surface. The poetry of Marilyn Singer brings to life the fascinating behaviors of these animals, while Ed Young's art captures the beauty of their habitats. The 14 animals in this book defy the odds and make their homes in the unlikeliest of places—under the weight of seas, in the belly of tar pits, in the sandstorm's mouth.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
44 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivates the animals in the book to live in such unusual habitats?
How do the different environments affect the lives of the creatures featured in the book?
If you had to choose, which strange place from the book would you like to visit and why?
Can you think of any other animals that live in extreme conditions and why they might do so?
How do you think the animals feel about their homes?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the book by asking them to relate the creatures' experiences to their own feelings about home. Use descriptive imagery from the book to help them visualize each habitat. After discussing each animal, you might also encourage creative thinking by asking your child to imagine and describe their own 'strange place to call home.' Promote empathy by exploring how and why certain living conditions might be challenging or beneficial for the animals. Lastly, reinforce shared learning by possibly researching more about these extreme environments together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Adaptability and resilience
Explanation: The book showcases various animals living in extreme conditions, demonstrating their ability to adapt and survive.
Real-World Application: Children learn that adapting to new environments or changes is crucial, and resilience is key to overcoming challenges.
Example Lesson: Diversity and uniqueness
Explanation: Each animal in the story thrives in a unique habitat, highlighting the beauty of biodiversity and different ways of life.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate and celebrate differences among people and environments in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The narrative encourages exploring unusual and extreme parts of nature, stimulating curiosity about the world.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to ask questions and explore the world around them, enhancing their knowledge and understanding.
Example Lesson: Environmental awareness
Explanation: By focusing on animals in rarely discussed habitats, the book raises awareness about various ecosystems.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of protecting and respecting all types of environments, promoting responsible behavior towards nature.