All Alone
on Goodreads (201)
What’s inside...
Caldecott Medalist and bestselling author Kevin Henkes explores the joys of solitude in his first book. He captures the wondrous moments of being alone, where one can pretend, hear, and see things that others cannot. The book reflects Henkes's own childhood memories and his respect for that time in others, illustrated with remarkable and unforgettable paintings.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the character felt when they were all alone? Have you ever felt that way?
What do you think the character learned by the end of the story?
If you were in the story, what would you say to the main character?
How do you think the story would change if there were more characters?
What are some ways you can enjoy your own company when you're alone?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child about a time they felt alone and how they dealt with that emotion.
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child what they think might happen next and why.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book's scenarios and relate them to their own experiences.
After reading, help your child draw a picture of their favorite scene, discussing why they chose it and what it means to them.
Use empathetic listening to show you understand and care about their feelings, validating their thoughts throughout the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and appreciating solitude
Explanation: In 'All Alone,' the story delves into the concept of enjoying one’s own company and finding peace in solitude.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value quiet moments by themselves, fostering independence and self-contentment.
Example Lesson: Embracing imagination and creativity
Explanation: The protagonist explores various imaginative scenarios while being alone, highlighting the boundless nature of a child’s creativity when left to their own devices.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination to entertain themselves and think creatively in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Resilience and adaptability
Explanation: The narrative demonstrates how the character adapts to being alone and finds joy in it, which builds emotional resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children learn to adapt to different circumstances and find positives in less than ideal situations.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-reflection
Explanation: The quiet moments alone allow the character to reflect on their feelings and thoughts.
Real-World Application: Teaching children the value of introspection can help them understand their emotions and foster mental wellness from a young age.