Free the Lines
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
A little sailing boat casts out his line to catch a fish in a busy, healthy ocean. But when a big, smoking trawler casts its mighty net, will any of the fish escape? Does the little sailing boat make the right choice? What do you think? This striking and artistic wordless picture book explores an environmental theme through simple linework, patterns and strong contrasts. A great way to spark conversations between parents and children about conservation and environmental issues. Named one of Bank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year, 2018!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the journey of the lines in the book? How do you think they felt being free?
Can you imagine what adventures the lines might have next? Where would you like to see them go?
Why do you think the author chose lines as the characters? What makes them special?
How did the lines change from the beginning to the end of the story? What changes did you notice?
If you could draw a picture inspired by this book, what would you draw and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and ideas about the story by asking open-ended questions that foster creativity and critical thinking.
Draw parallels between the lines' journey and any new experience your child might have had, discussing feelings and lessons learned.
Use the book's illustrations to engage your child visually, asking them to describe what they see and what they think it means within the story’s context.
Emphasize the values of freedom and adventure, asking your child how these themes play out in their own lives or how they might like them to.
After reading, consider creating a drawing session where your child can 'free the lines' on paper, allowing them to invent their own continuation of the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The story encourages children to think outside the box and use their imagination as the characters create inventive solutions.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by exploring creative approaches to problem-solving in school projects or during playtime.
Example Lesson: Persistence
Explanation: Characters in the book face challenges but continue trying until they succeed, demonstrating the importance of persistence.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying in their endeavors, be it learning a new skill or building relationships with peers.
Example Lesson: Cooperation
Explanation: The book highlights characters working together to overcome obstacles, showcasing the power of teamwork.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in group activities at school, teaching children the value of collaborative efforts for common goals.
Example Lesson: Freedom of Expression
Explanation: In 'Free the Lines,' characters express themselves freely through various forms, emphasizing individuality.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to express their thoughts and feelings openly, whether in art, writing, or conversation, fostering a healthy emotional outlet.