Lost Thing
on Goodreads (5,821)
What’s inside...
A humorous story about a boy who discovers a bizarre-looking creature while collecting bottle-tops at the beach. The boy tries to find out who owns it or where it belongs, but everyone else is indifferent and unhelpful. Despite his better judgement, he feels sorry for the creature and attempts to find its home. The story is a creation of the acclaimed artist Shaun Tan, known for his intricate collages, whimsical images, and meaningful prose, encouraging readers to see the world differently.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the 'Lost Thing' represents in the story?
How did the characters' actions make you feel?
Why is it important to pay attention to things that might seem out of place or different?
What would you do if you found something unusual like the 'Lost Thing'?
How do you think the story would change if no one noticed the 'Lost Thing'?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book, validating their opinions to foster an open dialogue.
Ask your child to draw their version of the 'Lost Thing' and describe why they chose certain elements, promoting creativity and deeper understanding of the story.
Discuss the importance of empathy and understanding toward things that are different, connecting the story's themes to real-life scenarios.
Read the book together in a comfortable setting, taking turns to describe different parts of the illustrations to enhance visual literacy and attention to detail.
End the discussion by linking the story to the value of paying attention to the world around us, encouraging mindfulness and curiosity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing differences
Explanation: In 'Lost Thing', the protagonist encounters a creature that is unlike anything in his familiar world. Throughout the story, he learns to appreciate its uniqueness rather than fear or dismiss it.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to accept and celebrate differences in others, whether those differences are in appearance, abilities, or interests, fostering inclusivity from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of curiosity and discovery
Explanation: The curious nature of the boy leads him to discover the 'Lost Thing' and seek out where it belongs. His journey showcases the power of curiosity in understanding the unknown.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to explore their environments, ask questions, and learn actively, which are essential skills for educational success and personal growth.
Example Lesson: Value of kindness and compassion
Explanation: The boy's decision to help the 'Lost Thing' find a place where it belongs, despite it being an inconvenience, highlights the importance of empathy and helping others.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of acting with kindness towards those who are lost or in need, promoting a more caring and supportive community.
Example Lesson: Questioning the status quo
Explanation: The story subtly criticizes a monotonous, bureaucratic society and encourages questioning norms that exclude or ignore those who are different.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think critically about societal norms and consider how they might advocate for change and inclusivity in their communities.
Example Lesson: Perceiving beauty in the unnoticed
Explanation: The 'Lost Thing' initially seems out of place and unattractive in the dull, busy city. However, its beauty and significance are realized when it finds a place it belongs.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to look beyond first impressions and find beauty and value in the unexpected, enhancing their observation and appreciation for the world around them.