Every Thing on It
on Goodreads (14,386)
What’s inside...
Have you ever read a book with everything on it? Here it is, an amazing collection of never-before-published poems from Shel Silverstein, the creator of Where the Sidewalk Ends, A Light in the Attic, and Falling Up. This book will bring you joy, introduce you to unusual characters, and let the magic of Silverstein's words bend your brain and open your heart. Now available as an eBook. From the bestselling author comes a collection of whimsical poems and drawings featuring characters like the toilet troll, Stick-a-Tongue-Out-Sid, and more. Experience the joys of growing down and let Silverstein's imagination run wild in your heart. Don't miss out on this unique collection that includes an introduction to the never-before-seen character Runny Babbit in his new book, Runny Babbit Returns (2017).
Age
5-10
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
If you could add one thing to your world, like Shel Silverstein suggests adding something to a hot dog, what would it be and why?
How do the illustrations help you understand or feel about the poem? Can you think of a creative way to draw your own version?
Which poem in the book was your favorite and what did it make you think or feel?
How do you think the author uses humor to share deeper messages in his poems?
If you could write a poem about any object in the room, what would it be and what would you say about it?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think creatively and empathetically by asking how they relate personally to the characters or situations in the poems.
Discuss the use of imagination in the book and ask your child to think of the most imaginative thing they would like to create or invent.
Facilitate a drawing session where you and your child draw scenes or objects from the book, then discuss each other's interpretations and feelings about them.
Use the poems as an opportunity to delve into discussions about feelings, asking how certain poems make your child feel and why.
Create a playful environment by reading poems aloud together with expression and humor, mimicking the tone and mood of the poems.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Creativity
Explanation: Shel Silverstein’s 'Every Thing on It' features quirky, imaginative poems that encourage creative thinking and expression.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by engaging in creative activities such as drawing, writing, or storytelling, using their imagination to explore possibilities.
Example Lesson: Understanding Emotions
Explanation: The book includes poems that express a range of emotions, teaching children to identify and articulate their feelings.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to express their emotions more clearly, helping them communicate better with parents and peers.
Example Lesson: Valuing Individuality
Explanation: Silverstein’s poems often celebrate uniqueness and individuality, showing children that being different is a positive trait.
Real-World Application: Children can feel more confident in their unique qualities and be more accepting of others who might be different from them.
Example Lesson: Importance of Decision Making
Explanation: Some poems pose scenarios that involve choices, highlighting the consequences of decisions.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to think about the outcomes of their actions and make thoughtful decisions in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Learning Through Play
Explanation: The playful tone and nature of the poems make learning enjoyable and engaging for children.
Real-World Application: This emphasizes the importance of learning through play, encouraging children to explore educational content with enthusiasm and joy.