I Can't Fly And I Can't Swim
What’s inside...
I Can't Fly And I Can't Swim is a memoir by Simon Gough that recounts his experiences growing up in a dysfunctional family and his struggles with mental illness. Gough's candid and often humorous storytelling offers a raw and honest look at the challenges he faced, including his battles with addiction and his journey towards recovery. Through his writing, Gough explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of human connection. Bobby is a Penguin who cannot fly, and Tilly, his friend, a giraffe who cannot swim. The two friends though set out to show the other what it must feel like to fly and swim, and that if we stick together as friends, we can achieve most things. A lovely little uplifting story that children will want to read and read.
Discussion points
What do you think the characters felt when they discovered they couldn't fly or swim?
How did the characters solve their problems in the story?
Can you think of a time when you couldn’t do something and how you overcame that challenge?
Why is it important to keep trying even when something seems difficult?
What would you do if you were in the same situation as the characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by reading the book together, letting your child turn the pages. After reading, relate the characters’ experiences to your child’s own experiences. Ask them about times they faced challenges and how they felt. Validate their feelings and emphasize the importance of perseverance and creativity in problem-solving. Encourage them to imagine alternative endings or solutions for the characters. Finish by discussing the moral of the story and what they can learn from it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Uniqueness
Explanation: The main characters, a bird who can't fly and a fish who can't swim, learn to appreciate their unique abilities rather than focusing on their limitations.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to celebrate their own unique traits and talents, understanding that everyone has something special to offer.
Example Lesson: Importance of Friendship
Explanation: The bird and fish support each other through their challenges, demonstrating the value of true friendship.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to help and support their friends, understanding that difficulties can be easier to manage with a friend by their side.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: Together, the bird and fish use creative thinking to navigate their environments, showcasing effective problem-solving strategies.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think creatively and persistently about finding solutions to their own obstacles.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Despite their limitations, both characters continue to try and adapt, highlighting resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and not giving up despite setbacks or challenges.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story portrays how the characters learn to understand and empathize with each other's struggles, fostering a spirit of compassion.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children develop empathy towards others who might seem different but face their own challenges.