Adèle & Simon in China
#3 in Adèle & Simon Series
on Goodreads (204)
What’s inside...
When siblings Adele and Simon visit their uncle in China, he buys them each gifts for their trip. Simon picks out a hat, a flute, a fan, and other small items, while his sister selects a camera to photograph their journey. As soon as they're packed and ready, it's time to set off with Uncle Sydney to explore! In a series of postcards home to their mother, Adele describes each of the places they visit and the adventures they have, and what item Simon managed to lose at each stop along the way. On a silk farm in Shanghai, he loses his scarf. Along the Great Wall, his hat blows right off his head. By the end of the trip, Simon has misplaced all of his belongings! But when Adele develops her photographs, she and her brother discover that they can see each of Simon's lost items in the background of the pictures. Barbara McClintock's meticulous research and intricate pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations bring this book to life, capturing the essence of each of the culturally and historically significant sites that Adele and Simon visit. Children will love poring over the pictures to find Simon's lost items, and parents will value the authenticity of the art and story.
Discussion points
What did you find most exciting about Adèle and Simon's adventures in China?
What are some of the differences and similarities you noticed between the places Adèle and Simon visited and where we live?
How do you think Simon felt when he kept losing his belongings and why?
Can you think of your favorite part of the book and explain why you liked it?
What would you do if you were visiting China like Adèle and Simon? What places would you want to see?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize the detailed illustrations to deepen the discussion, pointing out historical and cultural elements present in the drawings to enhance comprehension and curiosity.
Encourage empathy by discussing Simon’s feelings throughout his journey, asking your child how they would feel in similar situations and what solutions they might come up with.
Tie the story to personal experiences by comparing family trips or outings to the journey of Adèle and Simon, making the conversation relatable and engaging.
To stimulate critical thinking, ask your child to guess what might happen next after certain events in the book or how changing an event would affect the story.
Reinforce learning by encouraging your child to learn more about China today, comparing it with the historical perspective shown in the book to cultivate a deeper understanding of culture and history.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Awareness and Appreciation
Explanation: The story of 'Adèle & Simon in China' takes young readers on a journey through various parts of China, exposing them to different cultural landmarks and traditions.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures, which can enhance their social interactions and global understanding.
Example Lesson: Importance of Responsibility
Explanation: Throughout the book, Adèle is tasked with keeping an eye on her younger brother Simon, emphasizing the theme of responsibility.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to take care of their belongings and look out for their siblings or peers, fostering a sense of responsibility from a young age.
Example Lesson: Geographical Knowledge
Explanation: As the characters travel from one historic site to another, children are introduced to different geographical locations within China.
Real-World Application: This knowledge can spark interest in geography and exploration, helping children to become more curious about the world around them.
Example Lesson: Observational Skills
Explanation: Children are encouraged to find items Simon loses along the way, which enhances their observational and attention to detail skills.
Real-World Application: These skills are beneficial in academic settings and can improve their ability to concentrate and notice details in their everyday environment.
Example Lesson: Sibling Cooperation
Explanation: The dynamic between Adèle and Simon shows the ups and downs of sibling relationships, highlighting cooperation.
Real-World Application: This can help children in understanding the importance of teamwork and supporting each other in family and school projects.