I (Don't) Like Snakes
#1 of 11 in Nature Storybooks Series
What’s inside...
A young girl has a problem: her family has snakes as pets, and she really dislikes them. However, her family helps her understand why snakes behave and look the way they do. Through snake trivia, realistic illustrations, and simple explanations of snake behavior, the girl begins to shed her misconceptions and may even start to appreciate these fascinating reptiles. The story includes a note about snakes, a bibliography, and an index.
Discussion points
Why do you think the girl in the book doesn't like snakes at the beginning?
What are some interesting facts about snakes that you learned from this book?
How does the girl's opinion about snakes change throughout the story?
Can you think of something you don’t like and what might help change your mind about it?
Why do you think it's important to learn about animals, even if they seem scary at first?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about snakes and what they find interesting or scary about them.
During reading, pause at each new fact about snakes to discuss and absorb the information together.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between the girl’s journey in the book and their own experiences with overcoming fears or dislikes.
After reading, help your child look up more information or a documentary on snakes to further demystify them.
Reinforce the book’s themes by discussing the importance of empathy and understanding towards all creatures.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear with knowledge
Explanation: The protagonist, initially frightened by snakes, learns fascinating facts about them which changes her perspective.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to research and learn about the things they fear to better understand and possibly overcome those fears.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for biodiversity
Explanation: The book details various types of snakes and their roles in the ecosystem, highlighting the importance of each species.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to respect and protect diverse life forms in their local environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity
Explanation: The main character’s questions and eagerness to learn drive the narrative, showcasing how curiosity leads to greater knowledge and understanding.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to ask more questions and seek out answers in their daily interactions, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: By debunking common myths about snakes, the book encourages critical examination of information.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to question stereotypes and misinformation, leading to more informed opinions and decisions.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards animals
Explanation: As the fear turns into fascination, the protagonist develops empathy for snakes, understanding their nature and importance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to extend empathy to animals, understanding them as crucial parts of our world rather than fearing them.