Be Back Soon
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
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Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they had to say goodbye? Have you ever felt similar?
What are some ways the character tried to stay hopeful? Can you think of a time when you had to be hopeful about something?
Why is it important to keep promises, like the promise to 'Be Back Soon'? How does it make you feel when someone keeps a promise to you?
How did the character's friends help them cope with missing someone? What do you like to do with your friends when you're feeling sad or miss someone?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start your reading session by setting a cozy, inviting atmosphere to make your child feel comfortable and open to discussion. Use emotive questions to help your child connect personally with the story, encouraging them to share their own feelings and experiences. Highlight the importance of empathy by discussing how understanding the characters' feelings might help us understand our own feelings better. After reading, consider role-playing a scene from the book to help your child express emotions and solidify their understanding of the story’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of time
Explanation: In 'Be Back Soon', the story revolves around a young protagonist waiting for their parent to return from a trip. The narrative explores how time feels different depending on our emotions and situations.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by developing patience and grasping how waiting periods are a normal part of life, which can help them manage separation anxiety and build independence.
Example Lesson: Importance of emotional expression
Explanation: The book portrays the protagonist expressing their feelings of missing their parent openly. This emotional honesty is highlighted as a strength, not a weakness.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of expressing their emotions, which can help them communicate more effectively with parents and peers, fostering a healthier emotional development.
Example Lesson: Coping with separation
Explanation: The story offers various strategies that the protagonist uses to feel closer to their parent despite physical distance, such as looking at photos and remembering shared moments.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in coping with their own experiences of separation, whether it be during school hours or time away from parents, by finding comfort in memories and tangible reminders.
Example Lesson: Strengthening independence
Explanation: As the protagonist finds activities to keep themselves occupied and happy, they grow more self-reliant and confident in their own abilities.
Real-World Application: Kids can echo these behaviors by engaging in hobbies or tasks independently, learning that self-sufficiency is fulfilling and empowering.
Example Lesson: Valuing reunions and relationships
Explanation: The joyful reunion at the end of the book underscores the importance of close family bonds and appreciating loved ones when they return.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to treasure moments spent with family and friends, understanding that relationships are vital for emotional support and happiness.