Harriet Versus the Galaxy
on Goodreads (73)
What’s inside...
A hilarious and heartfelt debut from multi-award winning, hearing aid wearing, comedian, actor and author Samantha Baines. The intergalactic adventure starts at home with Harriet, who discovers that her hearing-aid can do more than she ever bargained for when she finds an alien in her room. Discovering that her family secretly work for an intergalactic agency, Harriet becomes the Earth's first line of defence as the only one who can understand the invaders. Sure, her hearing aid helps her understand aliens from across the universe, if only she could understand her own feelings.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
192 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you discovered your hearing aid could translate alien languages?
How did Harriet show bravery throughout the story, and can you think of a time you were brave like her?
What do you think is the most important message the book teaches about friendship and teamwork?
How would you help a friend from another planet adjust to Earth?
If you could create one gadget to help you in daily tasks, what would it look like and what would it do?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the challenges faced by Harriet and relate them to their own life experiences to deepen their understanding.
As your child responds to questions, rephrase their points in your own words to ensure mutual understanding and keep the conversation flowing.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This can lead to more discussions about the story's themes and characters’ actions.
Share your own thoughts about the book’s themes, like bravery or friendship, to model good discussion habits and critical thinking.
Praise your child for their insights and ideas during the discussion, fostering an environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Harriet, a young protagonist, takes on the daunting challenge of defending Earth from alien invasions using her hearing aid, which allows her to communicate with extraterrestrials. This story demonstrates courage as Harriet navigates unfamiliar terrains and encounters.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their fears and overcome challenges, understanding that being brave can lead to positive outcomes, even in unfamiliar situations.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding differences
Explanation: Throughout the adventure, Harriet learns about different alien cultures and forms unlikely friendships. This helps in portraying the importance of empathy and celebrating diversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be open and accepting of individuals who may appear different, promoting inclusivity and cultural appreciation in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The power of communication
Explanation: The story emphasizes how Harriet’s ability to communicate with aliens through her hearing aid becomes crucial in resolving conflicts. It highlights the significance of clear and effective communication.
Real-World Application: Children can see the importance of expressing themselves and listening to others to solve problems and build strong relationships, be it at home, in school, or during play.
Example Lesson: Innovation and resourcefulness
Explanation: Harriet uses her hearing aid, a tool she requires for her disability, as an innovative means to interact with aliens. This portrayal demonstrates adaptability and thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their resources creatively to navigate difficulties and teaches that obstacles can be transformed into opportunities.
Example Lesson: The importance of family support
Explanation: Harriet's adventure is underpinned by the support she receives from her family, who believe in her capabilities despite the extraordinary circumstances.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of having a supportive family network and instills confidence in them that with support, they can tackle any challenge.