I'm Sticking with You--and the Chicken Too!
What’s inside...
In this follow up to I’m Sticking with You, Bear and Squirrel have a harmonious friendship, making music together. However, when Chicken wants to join their duo, they hesitate, believing three's a crowd. After Chicken leaves and faces danger, Bear and Squirrel must decide whether to help her. This tale explores themes of acceptance and belonging, showing that while new friends might disrupt the rhythm initially, they can also enhance the harmony and sense of belonging. This joyous story from the creators of I’m Sticking with You, shortlisted for Oscar's Book Prize 2022, is a celebration of friendship and inclusivity, beautifully illustrated and written.
Discussion points
How do you think Bear felt when Chicken joined their adventures? Can you think of a time you felt the same way?
What does friendship mean to you, and why is it important to stick together like Bear and Squirrel?
What are some ways Bear and Squirrel showed they cared for each other in the story?
If you were in the story, what fun activity would you suggest they all do together?
How do you think the story would change if another animal joined their group? Which animal would you add and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the characters and the situations they face. Use parallels from the child's own experiences to deepen their connection to the story. Highlight the moral lessons on friendship and loyalty, discussing how these values are important in real life. Ask your child to imagine different scenarios or endings to foster creativity and perspective-taking. Lastly, validate their feelings and perspectives to make them feel heard and valued during the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of loyalty
Explanation: The story illustrates loyalty through the characters sticking together through various challenges, showing that true friendship endures difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by supporting their friends in difficult times, fostering deeper and more meaningful relationships.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book work together to solve problems, demonstrating that collaboration can lead to successful outcomes.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the significance of cooperation in group activities at school or in sports, encouraging them to actively participate and contribute to their team's success.
Example Lesson: Accepting differences
Explanation: This book shows characters with different personalities and skills collaborating, teaching children that everyone is unique and valuable in their own way.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and celebrate the differences among their peers, which can lead to a more inclusive and supportive environment in school and other social settings.
Example Lesson: Persistence pays off
Explanation: The characters keep trying despite setbacks, showing that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to keep trying and not give up easily, whether they are learning a new skill or facing a challenge at school.
Example Lesson: Expressing gratitude
Explanation: Characters often express thanks for each other's help and companionship, highlighting the importance of gratitude.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be vocal about their appreciation for others, fostering a positive and grateful mindset in their everyday interactions.