Come All You Little Persons
illustrations by
What’s inside...
A tender, moving and joyous story that celebrates diversity Come little bird person, come little bee person, come little tree person - little persons from all over the world join together to celebrate the dance of life and love in this stunning poem from John Agard. Stunningly illustrated by Jessica Courtney-Tickle, this is a book that both little persons and big persons will treasure and pore over for a lifetime, and is a true poem of our time.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think each little person in the book feels about their unique qualities?
What do you like about yourself that makes you special?
Which little person's story did you find most interesting or inspiring, and why?
How can we celebrate the differences in people we meet every day?
What would you do if you met someone who felt out of place? How could you help them feel included?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the diversity and uniqueness represented in the book. Highlight the importance of acceptance and inclusion. Use examples from the book to discuss how our differences make us special. Reinforce the idea that everyone matters, just like the little persons in the story. Listen actively to your child's responses, and share your own feelings about the book's themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Celebration of Diversity
Explanation: This book takes readers on a journey through a fantastical world where all types of little persons—representing different backgrounds and abilities—come together in harmony. The vivid illustrations and poetic language celebrate diversity and inclusivity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect differences among people in their community, fostering an inclusive environment at school and in social settings.
Example Lesson: Importance of Unity
Explanation: The story emphasizes the theme of unity as all the little persons join forces in a joyful gathering. There's a strong message that everyone, regardless of their differences, can contribute to something bigger.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to participate in group activities and understand the value of teamwork in achieving common goals, whether in sports, school projects, or family tasks.
Example Lesson: Value of Individuality
Explanation: Each character in the book is unique, with their own traits and talents. This highlights that individuality is a strength that should be celebrated.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace their own uniqueness and express themselves freely, which can boost self-esteem and creativity.
Example Lesson: Joy in Simplicity
Explanation: The book portrays the simple pleasures of gathering and celebrating together, suggesting that happiness can be found in everyday moments and connections.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to find joy in simple activities like playing with friends or spending time with family, rather than relying solely on material possessions for happiness.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: As different characters interact, there are subtle lessons on empathy and understanding, seeing the world from another’s perspective.
Real-World Application: This helps children develop social skills and emotional intelligence, crucial for building strong relationships and navigating diverse social environments.