Beatrice Doesn't Want To
not part of a series
What’s inside...
Beatrice is particularly uninterested in books and reading until she is forced to go to the library with her brother Henry, who has to work on a school project there. Henry takes her to the children's room where she hears a reading. After that, Henry cannot get his sister to leave the library. A humorous story of a stubborn little girl, a patient older brother, and the magical workings of the local library.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Beatrice
Henry
Discussion points
How do you think Beatrice felt when she didn’t want to read? Can you remember a time when you felt similar?
What do you think changed Beatrice's mind about reading at the end of the story?
Why do you think the librarian was important in Beatrice's change of heart?
How do you think the story would have been different if Beatrice decided not to read at all?
What’s your favorite part of going to the library, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing, express empathy towards Beatrice’s initial reluctance to help your child open up about their own hesitations or dislikes.
Use expressive reading to highlight the emotional transitions Beatrice experiences from the start to the end of the book, making the story more relatable.
After reading, connect the story to your child’s personal experiences by asking them about times they’ve changed their mind about something they initially resisted.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings for the book to foster creative thinking and perspective-taking.
Highlight the role of supportive adults, like the librarian, to stress the importance of seeking help when feeling unsure or uninterested.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of cooperation
Explanation: Beatrice initially resists participating in reading time at the library, demonstrating her reluctance to cooperate. As the story progresses, she learns the joy of joining in with others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of participating in group activities at school or in play, seeing how cooperation can lead to enjoyable experiences and new friends.
Example Lesson: Overcoming reluctance and fear
Explanation: Beatrice's journey encapsulates her transition from being fearful and reluctant about an unfamiliar situation, to enjoying herself once she gives it a chance. This change is central to the story’s narrative.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face new challenging situations, such as trying a new sport or learning a musical instrument, showing them that initial fear or discomfort can lead to growth and enjoyment.
Example Lesson: Discovering new interests
Explanation: By the end of the book, Beatrice discovers a love for books and reading, which she initially didn't know she had.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of exploring new activities and subjects that might initially seem unappealing or intimidating. This lesson highlights the potential of discovering new passions.
Example Lesson: Respect for authority and peers
Explanation: Beatrice learns to listen to her teacher and peers, understanding the importance of giving attention and respect to others.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to value and respect their educators and classmates, fostering a positive and conducive learning environment.