Anna May's Cloak
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
When Anna May is young, her grandmother makes her a beautiful blue velvet cloak. When she wears it, Anna May feels like a queen. Soon Anna May grows out of the cloak - but she never forgets her favourite piece of clothing and the love and magic in it. And she is determined to pass on the love in the cloak to all those in her family. This is the remarkable tale of one beautiful cloak and the transformations it undergoes as it is remade into piece after piece of clothing. This story will assuredly warm both body and heart of every child who reads it.
Age
4-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Anna May feel when she wore her cloak for the first time?
Why do you think the cloak was so special to Anna May?
How did the cloak change as Anna May grew up?
What does the cloak teach us about family and memories?
Tip: Role play these questions
Relate the story to a special item in your child’s life, asking them to share why it’s important to them.
Encourage your child to describe their emotions, linking them to moments in the story where Anna May felt similar feelings.
Discuss the concept of growth and change by comparing how the cloak was altered to suit Anna May’s needs as she grew.
Highlight the theme of family heritage and continuity by talking about traditions or heirlooms in your own family.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Generosity
Explanation: Anna May's decision to share her beloved cloak with those in need illustrates the virtue of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of sharing their belongings and helping others, fostering a sense of community and empathy.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: Throughout the book, the cloak is repurposed in various ways, demonstrating creativity and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to think creatively about using what they have in new and useful ways, encouraging problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Family Heritage
Explanation: The cloak being passed down through generations highlights the significance of family traditions and heritage.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value and preserve family stories and heirlooms, enhancing their connection to their family history.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As the cloak changes form to meet different needs, it teaches adaptability in the face of change.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand the importance of adapting to new situations, promoting resilience.
Example Lesson: Love and Memory
Explanation: The cloak serves as a physical memory of Anna May’s love, even after she is gone, teaching the enduring nature of love.
Real-World Application: Instills in children the understanding that love and memories remain in our hearts, even if someone is no longer with us.