Babar's Guide to Paris
Babar Series
on Goodreads (153)
What’s inside...
Babar the elephant, one of the most beloved and classic characters in children's literature, showcases his favorite parts of the City of Lights in this memorable trip to Paris, France. Laurent de Brunhoff's Paris is filled with charming elephants on every page as they enjoy all the sights and sounds of one of Europe's most popular cities. This all-new full-color picture book, rendered in beautiful watercolors, evokes the classic feel of the bestselling Babar's Museum of Art, and it will become a must-have read for fans of Babar, those planning a family trip to Paris, and anyone new to the wondrous world of Babar. When Babar's youngest daughter, Isabelle, heads to Paris on her own for the first time, he tells her how to enjoy the iconic city to the fullest. An expert Francophile, Babar recommends food, including cafes, street markets, and brassieres; he also offers the best sightseeing tips, especially observing the Eiffel Tower from every angle, walking along the banks of the Seine, visiting the Louvre and Orangerie museums, and exploring the Luxembourg Gardens. There's even a postcard-perfect opening scene that features the Babar family visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral on a previous vacation. Babar also gives local advice. He tells Isabelle how apartment buildings work, why an elephant may be surprised by the size of an elevator, how to take the metro, how to find a restaurant to call your own, and to walk-walk as much as possible to see everything that Paris has to offer. In the end, Isabelle is encouraged to enjoy her travels, but she is also lovingly reminded to always come home to Celesteville and her family. Like other classic children's books featuring international adventures, including Madeline in London and Eloise in Paris, readers will be eager to take the trip to Paris with Babar.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Babar
Isabelle
Alexander
Flora
Pom
Celeste
Discussion points
What do you think Babar enjoyed the most about his visit to Paris?
How do you think Babar felt when he explored different places in Paris?
What new things did Babar learn on his trip?
If you could visit Paris, what places would you like to see?
How did Babar's experiences in Paris change him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about Babar's adventures. Use the book’s illustrations to deepen the discussion, pointing out details that might tell more about the story. Make connections between Babar’s experiences and your child’s own experiences with new places or cultures. Consider planning a 'virtual tour' of Paris with your child inspired by Babar's adventures, looking up the landmarks visited in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: Through Babar's explorations of Paris, children experience the city's art, food, and landmarks, teaching them to appreciate diverse cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore and show interest in different cultures within their community or through books, fostering a sense of global citizenship.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Babar's enthusiasm for learning about Paris's history and culture models a positive attitude towards learning and discovery.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to ask questions and seek information about unfamiliar subjects or places they encounter in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Babar often finds himself navigating new situations and challenges in Paris, demonstrating critical thinking and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to think critically and solve problems they face, whether in their studies or in social scenarios.
Example Lesson: Respect for History and Heritage
Explanation: Babar shows great respect for the historical aspects of Paris, its monuments and its art, emphasizing the importance of heritage.
Real-World Application: Teach children to respect and preserve their own local history and cultural heritage, visiting museums or historical sites.
Example Lesson: Joy in Sharing Experiences
Explanation: Babar shares his Parisian adventures with his family, highlighting the joy of sharing experiences with loved ones.
Real-World Application: Encourage children to share their own experiences and discoveries with family members, strengthening bonds and communication.