Journey to the Centre of My Brain
MacMillan Poetry Series
on Goodreads (14)
What’s inside...
James Carter's third collection of poems for children is a real treat packed with gorgeous thoughts, dreams, and moments. Sneak a peek into James Carter's brain in this brilliant collection of poems. Join the party as he takes us on a trip to space, introduces us to tigers, mammoths, clouds, and bugs and that's just the start of the journey . . .
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the journey inside the brain and why?
How do you think our brains help us feel and think?
If you could add one room to the 'brain house' described in the book, what would it be and what would happen there?
How do you think the brain connects with other parts of the body after reading this book?
What did you learn about how your brain works that you didn't know before?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the story to their own experiences by asking how they feel when they think, learn something new, or solve a problem.
Use visuals or drawings to help explain complex parts of the brain discussed in the book, making the connection more tangible for the child.
After reading the book, engage in a playful activity like 'brainstorming' together about new, fun ideas, mimicking how neurons might work in the brain.
Discuss the importance of taking care of our brains, like eating healthy and getting enough sleep, drawing parallels to how the character in the book navigates different challenges inside the brain.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Emotions
Explanation: Through playful poetry and engaging storytelling, 'Journey to the Centre of My Brain' guides young readers to explore their own emotions, helping them identify feelings like happiness, sadness, and anger.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children become more self-aware and better manage their emotions, which can improve their interactions with others and enhance their social skills.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: James Carter’s book uses whimsical illustrations and creative scenarios to foster imagination. It illustrates how the mind can create vivid worlds and stories.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination in solving problems and expressing themselves through art, writing, or play, enhancing their creative thinking abilities.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Curiosity
Explanation: The protagonist’s adventure is driven by curiosity, showing how asking questions leads to exciting discoveries about oneself and the world.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to seek knowledge and explore new interests, which can aid their academic performance and personal development.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Overcoming Fears
Explanation: As the journey progresses, the protagonist faces various challenges but continues to move forward, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges with courage, understanding that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Joy of Learning
Explanation: The book celebrates the joy of learning through its fun and engaging narrative, showing that gaining knowledge can be an enjoyable experience.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to associate learning with pleasure, encouraging a lifelong love for education and personal growth.