Emily's Rock
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Emily has been bullied by Eunice for quite a long time, causing her sadness and making her dread going to school. With the support of her grandfather, Emily will discover the true source of her confidence and learn that school should be a safe and positive environment.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Emily felt when she found the rock? Can you describe a time you discovered something special?
Why do you think the rock was important to Emily? What's something that is very important to you?
How did Emily's rock change the way she saw her surroundings? Has anything ever changed how you view the world around you?
What would you do if you found a rock like Emily's? Would you keep it or give it to someone?
How do you think the story would be different if Emily hadn't found the rock? What would she have done instead?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a warm and curious tone to encourage your child to explore their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by comparing Emily’s adventure with real-life situations your child might have encountered.
Emphasize the importance of discovery and curiosity as shown in the book, and relate it to everyday learning opportunities.
After discussing each question, ask your child if they have any questions of their own about the story, to promote critical thinking.
Encourage your child to draw or create their version of 'Emily's Rock' to make the conversation more interactive and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Emily's Rock,' Emily learns to understand and feel the emotions of others when she discovers a special rock that allows her to experience the thoughts and feelings of those around her.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and respect the feelings of others, fostering a kind and empathetic environment at school or home.
Example Lesson: Importance of Sharing
Explanation: The story highlights the value of sharing as Emily shares the magical experiences from the rock with her friends, strengthening their bond.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to share their own belongings and experiences, teaching them about cooperation and communal harmony.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: Emily initially is scared to reveal the rock’s magic but eventually finds the courage to share its secret. This pivotal moment showcases her bravery.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their own fears, whether it’s speaking in front of the class or trying something new, promoting personal growth and confidence.
Example Lesson: Value of Curiosity
Explanation: Emily's journey begins with her curiosity about the special rock, leading her to a deeper understanding of her friends and family.
Real-World Application: Curiosity drives learning and innovation. Children will be inspired to explore their own interests and question the world around them.
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: Through the thoughts and feelings of others, Emily learns about the diverse backgrounds and experiences of her friends, promoting inclusivity.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by embracing diversity in their communities, learning to appreciate different perspectives and cultures.