All the Things We Carry
What’s inside...
Follow the emotional journey of siblings Emma and Jack as they learn how to cope with the complexities of life, love, and loss while carrying their mother's enigmatic backpack across a fantastical realm filled with unexpected challenges and extraordinary creatures. Along the way, they also encounter a mischievous creature known as a Snaffle who has a penchant for eating screens as snacks. Meanwhile, another Snaffle arrives in the city and discovers she likes screens as snacks too, which leads her to eat every last screen in the city, prompting a screen-free adventure.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some things the characters in the book carry with them, and how do those things help tell their stories?
How do the characters change throughout the story, and what do you think prompted those changes?
Can you think of something special you carry with you? Why is it important to you?
What did the characters learn about themselves by the end of the book?
How would you help a friend who is carrying something difficult, like the characters in this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Prior to reading, ask your child to think about an item they always carry with them and why it’s significant. Revisit this conversation after reading to connect personal experiences with the book’s themes.
While reading, pause at intense moments or key decisions to ask your child how they might feel or act if they were in the character’s situation.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw or write about an object they would include in a story about their life.
Use examples from the book to talk about empathy and understanding others’ feelings and burdens.
Discuss the resolution of the book and ask your child to imagine alternative endings based on different choices the characters might have made.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of resilience
Explanation: The characters in 'All the Things We Carry' face various challenges but learn to overcome them through persistence and courage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to approach difficult situations in their own lives with determination, understanding that obstacles are a part of growth.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and support
Explanation: Throughout the book, the importance of family and the support system they provide is emphasized as characters rely on each other in times of need.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to value and seek support from their family and friends, reinforcing the importance of a strong support network.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of change
Explanation: The story showcases characters who learn to accept and adapt to changes in their lives, highlighting the inevitability and often positive aspects of change.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to embrace change in their lives, such as moving to a new place or transitioning to a new school, with optimism and open-mindedness.
Example Lesson: Self-discovery and personal growth
Explanation: The protagonists embark on journeys that lead to self-discovery and personal growth, illustrating the enriching experience of learning about oneself.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to explore their own interests and passions, understanding that personal growth is a lifelong journey.