Jellybeans
What’s inside...
A young rabbit named George receives a message from his friend Oscar, a cat, inviting him to the park to eat jellybeans. The two friends have a humorous and profound conversation about the existence of heaven and what might happen there, all while enjoying their favorite snack. 'Jellybeans' by Sylvia Van Ommen is a charming and thought-provoking book that explores deep existential questions in a light-hearted manner.
Discussion points
What do you think the different colors of jellybeans might represent? Do they remind you of certain emotions or ideas?
Why do you think the characters in the story chose those specific jellybeans? How would you choose yours?
What lesson do you think the story is trying to teach us about friendship and sharing?
How did the story make you feel when the characters shared their jellybeans?
If you were in the story, what would you have done differently and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Allow your child to express their thoughts without interruptions, showing them that their opinions are valued.
Relate the sharing of jellybeans in the book to real-life scenarios involving your child, which will help them connect the story’s message to their own experiences.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings to the book, which can help them develop creativity and problem-solving skills.
Discuss the different emotions characters might have felt during the story, which enhances empathy and emotional intelligence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: In 'Jellybeans,' the characters demonstrate the value of companionship and support for one another, sharing joys and facing challenges together.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to be supportive friends, valuing their relationships, and working through conflicts with kindness and understanding.
Example Lesson: Embracing differences
Explanation: The book showcases characters with different personalities and preferences, highlighting how diversity enriches friendships.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to appreciate and embrace the differences in others around them, fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment at school and in their communities.
Example Lesson: Dealing with disappointment
Explanation: The story addresses moments when things don't go as planned, teaching children resilience and how to handle setbacks positively.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to remain optimistic and persistent even when facing difficulties, turning challenges into learning opportunities.
Example Lesson: Sharing joy with others
Explanation: In the story, characters share happy moments and little victories, which amplifies their happiness and strengthens their bonds.
Real-World Application: Children can replicate this behavior by celebrating their own and their peers' successes, promoting a positive and supportive atmosphere in their interactions.