Ice Cream Summer
on Goodreads (640)
What’s inside...
Savor summer anytime with this picture book by Peter Sís, an award-winning author, which combines the simple joys of summer with the pleasures of learning. The book follows a young narrator who recounts their summer activities such as reading and studying, alongside their love for ice cream. Sís playfully intertwines the indulgence of ice cream with the benefits of learning, creating a delightful and enriching experience for readers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is your favorite part about summer, and how does it compare to Joe’s experiences in the book?
How do you think making and eating ice cream can help Joe learn about different subjects like spelling, history, and math?
Why do you think Joe’s grandfather sends him letters, and what can we learn from them?
Can you think of other creative ways to learn about your favorite subjects?
How does the book's illustrations add to the story? What is your favorite picture?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate personal summer experiences with those of Joe in 'Ice Cream Summer.' This nurtures empathy and personal connection to the story.
Discuss each of Joe's activities in the book and ask your child how they think these activities help Joe learn. This helps clarify their understanding of learning through play.
While reading, pause at the letters from Joe’s grandfather and discuss what advice or knowledge the grandfather is imparting. This helps develop respect for elder wisdom and family relationships.
After reading, ask the child to draw or list their favorite summer activities and how those can be educational, similar to Joe’s experience. This reinforces the theme of learning being fun and part of everyday life.
Point out the artwork and ask open-ended questions about the style, colors, or what they might mean in the context of the story. This enhances visual literacy and observation skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Learning History
Explanation: Through the letters to his grandfather, the protagonist explores historical facts about ice cream, integrating it into his summer learning.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to research the history of their favorite foods or hobbies, enhancing their understanding and appreciation.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The story shows the young protagonist using his imagination to turn a simple ice cream treat into a fun, engaging summer project.
Real-World Application: Kids can use their everyday experiences as a basis for creative projects, stimulating their imagination and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Value of Education
Explanation: The book weaves educational elements like spelling, counting, and history seamlessly into the narrative, underscoring learning as a continuous and enjoyable process.
Real-World Application: Children can be motivated to see education as a fun, ongoing journey that doesn't just happen at school but is part of everyday life.
Example Lesson: Communication Skills
Explanation: By writing letters to his grandfather, the main character practices effective communication.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to improve their writing skills and maintain regular communication with family members, fostering stronger relationships.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Goal Setting
Explanation: The protagonist sets a personal goal to learn everything about ice cream and works towards achieving it throughout the summer.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of setting personal goals and the value of perseverance in achieving them.