Annika’s Secret Wish with CD
on Goodreads (210)
What’s inside...
Annika's Secret Wish is a beautifully reissued picture book that features a young Swedish girl named Annika who learns about giving and sacrificial love during an ancient tradition. The book comes with an audio CD narrated by Evie, which includes music and sound effects that provide deeper insights into Annika's thoughts and feelings. This set is ideal for families and children of all ages, serving as an engaging tool for early readers and a cherished gift that can be enjoyed beyond the Christmas season.
Age
5-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Annika
Discussion points
What do you think Annika's wish was and why do you think it was important to her?
How did the characters in the story show kindness to each other?
What would you wish for if you were in Annika's place and why?
How do you think the story would change if Annika shared her secret wish with others?
Can you think of a time when you had a secret wish? How did it make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that prompt your child to think deeply about the story and relate it to their own experiences.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, validating their responses to foster a supportive conversation environment.
Discuss the themes of kindness and wishes by connecting them to real-life examples that your child might encounter.
After reading the book, consider having a 'wish day' where everyone in the family shares a wish they have, discussing why it's important to them.
Explore the cultural aspects presented in the book to provide a broader understanding of the story's setting and relevance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of selflessness
Explanation: In 'Annika’s Secret Wish,' Annika hopes to find the almond hidden in the rice pudding, which tradition says will grant her a wish. However, she chooses to act selflessly, showing that sometimes personal desires can be set aside for the happiness of others.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of thinking about the welfare of others before their own, fostering a sense of empathy and kindness in everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: The joy of sharing special moments with family
Explanation: The story revolves around a family gathering during a traditional Swedish Christmas celebration, emphasizing the warmth and joy shared amongst family members.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cherish and look forward to family gatherings and view them as opportunities to create lasting memories.
Example Lesson: Respecting and participating in cultural traditions
Explanation: Annika’s Secret Wish showcases a slice of Swedish culture through its depiction of the Christmas celebration and the almond tradition in the pudding.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to learn about and engage in their own cultural traditions, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of their heritage.