Elle of Portuana
on Goodreads (23)
What’s inside...
Elle is from a small town by the beach named Portuana. She loves trees, nature, and saving money. This picture book takes a child into Elle’s world. The child then sees how Elle ties all her passions together. The picture book aims at inculcating these essential traits in young children so that they grow up to be environmentally conscious and have a balanced life.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Elle felt when she arrived in Portuana? Can you relate to her feelings?
What do you think is the most important message Elle learned during her adventures?
If you were in Elle’s shoes, how would you have approached the challenges she faced?
What qualities do you admire in Elle, and why?
How do you think the story would change if it took place in our hometown?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in Elle’s world, enhancing empathy and understanding of the character’s decisions.
Discuss the moral lessons in the story and how they can be applied in real life, reinforcing ethical decision-making.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them, promoting personal connection to the narrative.
Allow your child to express which character they felt most connected to and explore why, fostering emotional intelligence.
Create a fun activity where your child can draw or write about an additional adventure for Elle, encouraging creativity and deeper engagement with the text.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and empathy
Explanation: In the story, the protagonist, Elle, demonstrates kindness by helping animals and people in her village, teaching young readers the value of compassionate actions.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by helping their friends or family members, or even by being kind to animals and nature, fostering a sense of empathy and community.
Example Lesson: The power of perseverance
Explanation: Elle faces various challenges throughout the book, but she shows determination and does not give up. Her perseverance is a central theme that encourages readers to keep trying despite obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to continue working towards their goals, whether it's learning a new skill, solving a difficult puzzle, or improving in a sport, teaching them the value of resilience.
Example Lesson: The importance of honesty
Explanation: Elle encounters a situation where she must tell the truth to save her friends. This part of the story highlights the positive outcomes of being honest.
Real-World Application: Children can learn from this scenario to always tell the truth, even when it might be difficult, helping them build trust with peers and adults alike.
Example Lesson: Respect for diversity
Explanation: Elle interacts with a wide variety of characters from different backgrounds and cultures. This interaction promotes an understanding and appreciation of diversity.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to embrace and respect differences in others around them, whether at school or in their community, which is crucial in today's global society.