Let's Do Nothing!
What’s inside...
Don't move! A master of animation explores the elusive art of doing nothing in this comical tale of two very active imaginations. Frankie and Sal have already played every sport and board game invented, baked and eaten batches of cookies, and painted a zillion pictures. What's left to do? Nothing! Ten seconds of nothing! Can they do it? Can they act like stone statues in the park? Can they simply hold their breath and not blink an eye? With a wink to the reader and a command of visual humor, feature film animator Tony Fucile demonstrates the Zen-like art of doing nothing...oops! Couldn't do it!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the story tells us about being busy all the time?
How did it feel when Frankie and Sal tried to do nothing? Have you ever tried something like that?
Why do you think it was hard for them to do nothing?
What were some funny things that happened when they tried to stay still?
Can you think of a time when doing nothing might be good for you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on their own experiences with 'doing nothing' and how it made them feel.
Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book and why it stood out to them. This helps them connect personally with the story.
Use the characters, Frankie and Sal, as examples to discuss the importance of sometimes taking a break and enjoying quiet moments.
After reading, spend a few minutes together doing 'nothing' and discuss how it feels compared to being busy with activities.
Encourage creative thinking by asking your child what they would imagine if they tried to do nothing like the characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The value of stillness and reflection
Explanation: In 'Let's Do Nothing!', the characters Frankie and Sal attempt to do nothing at all, which humorously illustrates the difficulty but eventual appreciation of being still and reflective in a hyperactive world.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate moments of stillness amidst their busy schedules, which can enhance mindfulness and creativity.
Example Lesson: Importance of imagination
Explanation: Despite trying to do nothing, the characters’ imaginations take over as they visualize themselves as statues, skyscrapers, and redwoods. This showcases the power of imagination.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination to entertain themselves, think creatively, and solve problems.
Example Lesson: Understanding the concept of 'less is more'
Explanation: The characters in the book learn that sometimes, doing nothing can actually lead to a lot of something, teaching readers about the value of simplicity and minimalism.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by finding joy and satisfaction in simple pleasures and activities, rather than constantly seeking new stimuli.
Example Lesson: Friendship and cooperation
Explanation: Throughout the book, Frankie and Sal work together in their quest to do nothing, showing how cooperation and shared moments can deepen friendships.
Real-World Application: This lesson can remind children about the importance of cooperating with others and enjoying shared experiences with friends.
Example Lesson: Patience and persistence
Explanation: As they struggle to do nothing, the characters demonstrate perseverance, trying various methods and learning from each failed attempt until they finally succeed.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be patient and persistent when facing challenging tasks or learning new skills in their everyday lives.