Imagine!
What’s inside...
When a boy visits an art museum and one of the paintings comes to life, he has an afternoon of adventure and discovery that changes how he sees the world ever after. An ALA Notable Book. A wordless picture book about a visit to the museum and the power of art and imagination. After passing a city museum many times, a boy finally decides to go in. He passes wall after wall of artwork until he sees a painting that makes him stop and ponder. Before long the painting comes to life and an afternoon of adventure and discovery changes how he sees the world ever after.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What would you do if you could bring paintings to life like the boy in the story?
How did the boy feel when he entered the museum and saw the art? How can you tell?
What are some of the adventures the boy and the characters from the paintings go on? Which adventure would you like to go on?
Why do you think the artist chose to tell the story without words? How did it make you feel to look at the pictures instead?
What do you think happens after the boy leaves the museum?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite illustrations from the book and explain why they like them.
Discuss the feelings and expressions of the characters and relate them to real-life experiences or emotions your child may have felt.
Invite your child to imagine what kind of art they would create if they were in the story and what adventure they would go on with their artwork.
Use the wordless nature of the book to foster creativity, asking the child to narrate the story or create dialogues for the characters.
After reading, visit a local museum or art gallery and encourage your child to pick out pieces of art that they would like to bring to life, discussing what adventures they might have.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The Power of Imagination
Explanation: In 'Imagine!' a young boy explores New York City's iconic landmarks like the Museum of Modern Art, letting his imagination blend the art into his real-world experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to use their own imagination to transform everyday situations into creative adventures, enhancing their problem-solving skills and cognitive flexibility.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Art
Explanation: The protagonist's adventure through art exhibits encourages an engagement with different forms of visual expression and history.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to visit museums, cultivate a love for art, and respect diverse cultural heritages.
Example Lesson: Courage to Explore
Explanation: The young boy ventures alone into the bustling city and interacts with the art pieces, showing bravery and curiosity.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore new environments and experiences, fostering independence and self-confidence.
Example Lesson: Connecting with Others
Explanation: As the character meets figures from paintings, it underscores the importance of connecting with others, regardless of differences.
Real-World Application: It teaches children to be open to forming new friendships and to appreciate the unique qualities in everyone.
Example Lesson: Joy in Shared Experiences
Explanation: The immersive journey in the museum with characters from the art highlights the shared joy in experiencing art.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of sharing experiences with others as a way to deepen connections and enhance enjoyment.