Even My Ears Are Smiling
What’s inside...
A treasury of classic favorites and original poems by the best-selling author of Mustard, Custard, Grumble Belly and Gravy features illustrations by the creator of Prince Cinders and a CD recording of the poems read by the author.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite poem in the book and why did it stand out to you?
How did the book make you feel and which parts made you smile the most?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to a character in one of the poems?
Which poem would you like to read aloud to a friend or family member and why?
If you could ask Michael Rosen one question about the book, what would it be?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read the poems with enthusiasm and different voices to bring the characters and scenes to life, making the reading experience more enjoyable and engaging.
After reading a poem, pause and ask your child how it made them feel or what they liked about it to encourage them to express their thoughts and feelings.
Relate the poems to real-life events or personal experiences to help your child connect more deeply with the content.
Encourage your child to draw a picture or act out their favorite poem to foster creativity and a deeper understanding of the poem's themes.
Discuss the illustrations and ask your child what they think the images are trying to convey to enhance their visual literacy skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Expression of Emotions
Explanation: Through various poems, Rosen navigates a spectrum of emotions, teaching children that all feelings are valid and should be expressed.
Real-World Application: Children learn to communicate their feelings effectively, leading to improved emotional intelligence and better social interactions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: Rosen's play with language and imaginative scenarios encourages children to think outside the box and embrace their creative side.
Real-World Application: Enhances problem-solving skills and promotes a creative approach in both academic and personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Poetry and Language
Explanation: The book exposes children to different poetic structures and the beauty of language, fostering an early appreciation for poetry.
Real-World Application: Cultivates a lifelong interest in reading and literature, enhancing vocabulary and language skills over time.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through diverse characters and situations, children are introduced to different perspectives and life experiences.
Real-World Application: Helps children develop empathy and an understanding of diverse human experiences, promoting inclusivity and compassion in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Joy of Reading
Explanation: The playful and engaging poems make reading a delightful experience, potentially turning it into a cherished habit.
Real-World Application: Encourages regular reading habits which improve literacy, focus, and academic performance.