Finding a Dove for Gramps
What’s inside...
A boy and his mom continue the family tradition of participating in the annual bird count. Since Gramps went South for the winter, the boy hopes to spot Gramps's favorite bird for him--a dove! But with so many different birds in the nature preserve, will he be able to spot one? This heart-warming family story about nature celebrates a holiday census that was first started in 1900 and happens every year.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Jay feels when he sets out to find a dove for Gramps and why?
What does the dove symbolize in Jay and Gramps’ adventure?
Can you think of a special memory that you share with someone in our family?
Why do you think it's important to remember and honor people we care about?
How can we show others that we appreciate and remember them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use pauses after each question to give your child time to think and express their thoughts.
Relate the themes of the book to your child's personal experiences to deepen their understanding and connection to the story.
Encourage your child to think about the symbols in the story, like the dove, and their possible meanings.
Discuss the importance of family traditions and memories, reinforcing the themes of the book.
Acknowledge and validate your child’s feelings and perspectives as they respond to the questions.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Family and Memories
Explanation: The story follows a boy helping his grandmother find a dove, which was a favorite bird of his recently deceased grandfather. It showcases the importance of cherishing memories and honoring loved ones.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and uphold family traditions and memories, understanding their role in keeping the memory of loved ones alive.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: As the characters search for the dove, they carefully observe and interact with nature, demonstrating respect and appreciation for wildlife.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of respecting their natural surroundings and promotes environmentally friendly behaviors, such as observing wildlife without disturbing it.
Example Lesson: Coping with Loss
Explanation: The book gently explores the themes of loss and remembrance through the boy’s journey to find a dove, helping him connect with his late grandfather.
Real-World Application: Children learn healthy ways to deal with grief and loss, understanding that it's okay to miss someone and find personal ways to remember them.
Example Lesson: Patience and Perseverance
Explanation: Finding the dove proves challenging, but the boy and his grandmother remain patient and persistent, eventually succeeding in their quest.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the value of patience and persistent effort in achieving goals, despite difficulties or delays.