Franklin in the Stars (Franklin and Friends)
Franklin The Turtle Series
on Goodreads (20)
What’s inside...
Franklin the Turtle and his sister, Harriet, are excited for stargazing when Aunt T arrives with a telescope. However, cloudy skies prevent them from using it. Aunt T suggests an imaginative indoor activity, creating their own version of outer space. The book, based on the TV series Franklin and Friends, teaches children about adaptability and creativity when plans change. It encourages using imagination to have fun and is perfect for preschool or kindergarten read-alouds and lessons on character education.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Franklin
Bear
Discussion points
What do you think Franklin might discover in the stars?
How do Franklin's feelings change throughout his space adventure?
Why is teamwork important when exploring new places, like Franklin and his friends did in space?
How do you think exploring space can help Franklin and his friends learn new things?
If you could explore the stars with Franklin, what would you want to see or do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Utilize expressive reading to make the space exploration come to life, using varied voice pitches and pace to match the excitement of the story.
After reading each section, pause to ask your child to predict what might happen next, enhancing their anticipation and engagement.
Relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing a time they tried something new or worked as a team, drawing parallels to Franklin’s adventure.
Encourage your child to express what they found most exciting about Franklin's journey and why, fostering a deeper emotional connection to the reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: Franklin's journey to the stars showcases his curiosity about the universe, encouraging him to explore and learn more about the world beyond his immediate surroundings.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek out new experiences, promoting a lifelong love of learning.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Franklin collaborates with his friends to navigate the stars, emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of cooperating with others, whether in school projects, sports, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Franklin and his friends encounter various challenges during their adventure, requiring them to think critically and devise solutions.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that facing problems thoughtfully and creatively is essential in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Facing the unknown of space, Franklin shows bravery, teaching children to confront fears and try new things.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to tackle new challenges without fear, whether trying out for a school play, making new friends, or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite setbacks during their space adventure, Franklin and his friends persist until they successfully complete their mission.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to keep striving toward their goals, regardless of obstacles, fostering resilience and determination.