Bodhi the Bird!
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
Vibrantly illustrated and written in rhyme, 'Bodhi the Bird!' is a delightful story about finding belonging. After being bullied, Bodhi sets out on a journey of self-discovery to find a flock that accepts him as he is. This book is perfect for children aged 2 to 7 and encourages embracing diversity and recognizing true friends. It combines captivating artwork with a tale that promotes self-awareness, relationship skills, and social awareness through Social-Emotional Learning (SEL).
Age
2-7
Length
38 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think Bodhi was scared to fly at the beginning of the story?
How did Bodhi's friends help him overcome his fear?
What would you have done if you were in Bodhi’s place?
How did you feel when Bodhi finally flew?
What does this story teach us about trying new things?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, which can help your child connect emotionally with Bodhi’s journey.
Pause at key moments to ask your child how they predict the story might unfold, fostering their analytical and predictive skills.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences with fear or courage to deepen their understanding and empathy.
After reading, encourage your child to draw a picture of their favorite scene, solidifying their recall and interpretation of the story.
Discuss the importance of friendship and support like Bodhi’s friends provided, asking about times when they have helped or been helped by friends.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: Bodhi the Bird faces numerous challenges but continues to try and overcome them with a positive attitude.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to stay determined and keep trying even when their tasks or homework feel challenging.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, Bodhi gains the support and companionship of other woodland creatures, teaching the value of helping and being there for others.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to build and maintain friendships by being supportive and kind to their peers in school or playgroups.
Example Lesson: Embracing uniqueness
Explanation: Bodhi is different from other birds because he cannot sing very well, but he learns to use his unique talents to contribute to his community.
Real-World Application: This story helps children understand that it’s okay to be different and they should embrace and celebrate their unique traits and skills.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: Bodhi faces a big challenge that requires brainstorming and collaboration to solve.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to think critically and work with others to solve problems, whether in school projects or during play.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: Bodhi confronts his fear of heights throughout the story, ultimately overcoming it to help his friends.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to face their own fears, be it trying out new activities, or speaking in front of their class.