Henry Hikes to Fitchburg (A Henry Book)
#1 of 141 in Henry Series
on Goodreads (732)
What’s inside...
Henry Hikes to Fitchburg, inspired by a passage from Walden by Henry David Thoreau, follows two friends with different approaches to life who agree to meet in Fitchburg, thirty miles away. Each friend chooses his own method of travel, resulting in drastically different journeys but surprisingly similar outcomes. The book has received critical acclaim, including the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award and the Ezra Jack Keats Writer Award, and is the first in the Henry series.
Character compass
Henry
Henry'S Friend
Discussion points
What do you think Henry learned on his journey to Fitchburg?
How did Henry's hike to Fitchburg differ from his friend's train ride, and what does that tell us about different ways of traveling?
Why do you think Henry chose to spend his time and energy instead of money to reach Fitchburg?
What parts of nature did Henry enjoy the most during his hike, and why do you think those parts were special to him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about the value of journey versus destination by comparing Henry's experiences with their own experiences on trips or outings.
Discuss the concept of spending time rather than money. Ask your child about what they would choose to do if they had to pick between the two.
Ask your child to describe their favorite outdoor activities and explore what makes those activities enjoyable, drawing parallels to Henry's hike.
Encourage your child to describe the scenery in the book and relate it to any family hikes or walks you've taken together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Value of Experiencing Nature
Explanation: Henry chooses to walk to Fitchburg, engaging directly with the natural world around him rather than taking the train.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to appreciate and explore the outdoors, fostering a love for nature and understanding of the environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Simplicity
Explanation: Henry's journey emphasizes simplicity and the joys found in simple activities, contrasting with his friend’s approach of working to afford the train ride.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to find happiness in simple pleasures and activities, rather than material possessions.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Resourcefulness
Explanation: Throughout his hike, Henry uses his creativity and resourcefulness to navigate challenges, showing that one can find solutions in unexpected ways.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively and be resourceful in solving problems they encounter in daily life.
Example Lesson: Different Paths to Same Goal
Explanation: Henry and his friend both aim to reach the same destination, yet they choose different paths, illustrating that there are various ways to achieve the same goal.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand that people have different approaches and perspectives, promoting respect for diverse methods and viewpoints.
Example Lesson: Patience and Enjoying the Journey
Explanation: Henry’s walk to Fitchburg shows him taking his time and enjoying the journey, unlike his friend who focuses on the destination.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of patience and enjoying the process, rather than rushing to achieve an outcome.